HC Deb 24 May 2004 vol 421 c1446W
Mr. Stephen O'Brien

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry for what reasons she rejects the British Chambers of Commerce estimation of the costs to businesses of regulations introduced since 1997. [173260]

Mr. Sutcliffe

The British Chambers of Commerce estimation of the burden does not appear to offset the benefits accrued. Objective measurement of regulation must consider the total impact, taking account of associated benefits.