SH: Government ends ‘gold-plating’ of European Regulations
The Government will use a series of new principles when introducing European measures into UK law, which will end so-called 'gold-plating' so that British businesses are not put at a disadvantage relative to their European competitors.
The key to the new measures will be the principle of copying out the text of European directives directly into UK law. The direct ‘copy out’ principle will mean that British interpretations of European law are not unfairly restricting British companies.
The new measures are part of a wider Government policy to tackle EU regulations at the source. Government will be talking with business organisations about the European Commission’s plan for future legislation, working closely with other European countries to make sure that regulations work well on the ground and improving how evidence is used by the European Parliament and Council.
Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “I want British business to be a powerhouse for economic growth and among the most competitive in the world. This move will bring an end to the charge of “gold-plating”. The way we implement our EU obligations must foster, not hinder, UK growth by helping British businesses compete with their European neighbours."
Government will also start work early on how to implement EU directives to ensure that there is certainty and early warning about how legislation will be introduced, but will not implement the regulations early unless there is a compelling case to do so. Businesses will be invited to take part in this process and work with Government to make sure that European laws place the least possible burden on companies.
Welcome
The Association of Recruitment Consultancies (ARC),which has campaigned against gold-plating the Agency Workers Directive, welcomed the Government’s commitment to end the practice.
Adrian Marlowe, Chairman of the ARC, said; "This is a very welcome move by the Government. No one is asking for favours, all that is needed is for the Government to help British business compete fairly. That is the route to creating greater employment and prosperity for all.
