EEF comment on EU Commission better regulation proposals

Commenting on the publication of the European Commission’s Agenda on Better Regulation by First Vice President, Frans Timmermans, Terry Scuoler, CEO of EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation, said: “This is a welcome step by the Commission as it seeks to tighten its grip on unnecessary red tape.

"We would like to see this go one step further with the introduction of a one-in, one-out principle, along with an annual statement of the total net cost to business of proposals brought forward and a new target to reduce the burden on businesses. This would signal an even greater commitment to reducing regulatory burdens which would help boost growth.

“More clearly than ever, however, the Commission is signalling a solid willingness to embrace change by introducing independent oversight, impact assessment of not just the proposal, but of substantive amendments made by either the EU Council or Parliament, together with a strong programme of evaluation of existing legislation.

“Today’s announcement demonstrates that the Commission is listening to business and intends to deliver real change. Regulation needs to achieve overall EU priorities, but must also be practical, effective and enable manufacturers in Europe to grow more productive.”

EEF currently Chairs CEEMET, the European body for manufacturing, representing some 250,000 companies across Europe, employing some 30 million people.