---

Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster

Answer

Sir Donald Thompson: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what cost compliance assessment has been undertaken of the proposed Workplace (Fire Precautions) Regulations by the deregulation unit. [8345] Mr. Freeman: The Workplace (Fire Precautions) Regulations are the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary. Earlier proposals for implementing the directives had significant costs associated with them which had led us to adopt a new approach, recognising the high standards of fire safety that already exist in workplaces. The Home Secretary undertook a further public consultation during the summer on a revised draft of these regulations, which, amongst other issues, specifically sought advice from business on compliance costs. The Home Office is currently preparing a compliance cost assessment which will accompany the proposed regulations.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

8345; 287 c312W

Session

1996-97

Subjects

Deregulation initiative Health and safety Fire prevention Fire regulations Impact assessments Statutory instruments