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Benefits of Better Regulation

Better regulation benefits businesses, public servants and those in the third sector, as well as members of the public.

The Better Regulation Executive (BRE) works to improve regulation for all these groups by:

  • reducing the burdens on business, the third sector and frontline public servants
  • improving the quality of regulated information in the public domain
  • encouraging a more positive perception of regulation.

Reducing the administrative burden

In 2006 the Government measured the administrative burden of regulation and found that businesses and third sector organisations pay around £20 billion a year to stay compliant. This is just the direct cost of filling in forms, dealing with inspections and providing statutory information to third parties.

Simpler, better-targeted regulation will save organisations time and money. And giving regulators wider, more clearly defined powers will help them target those most at risk.

Using better regulation to get effective outcomes

Good regulation doesn't only minimise burdens but also is effective in delivering benefits for individuals, businesses and society. Effective regulation brings benefits – like the extra trade and reduced prices that competitive markets create, cleaner air and water, reduced carbon emissions, safer and healthier workplaces and food, and the safety-net created by the minimum wage.

If policy-makers are clear about what they want to achieve, are committed to designing rules with regulated businesses in mind and are focussed on how they can facilitate compliance they can keep costs to a minimum and improve outcomes for society.

Freeing public servants to do their jobs

We know that frontline public sector workers are unhappy about unnecessary bureaucracy that takes up too much time.

Reducing the demands on them will free them to focus on their jobs, and provide an even better service to the public.

Helping consumers make more informed choices

Consumer research has revealed that members of the public are overwhelmed by regulated information, such as food labelling and credit agreements. Although businesses spend £1.5bn producing this information for consumers, reports suggest that many find it confusing and unhelpful.

The BRE aims to make consumer information more accessible, while ensuring that it still gives members of the public the protection they need.

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