Cable pledges to cut EU red tape

The Government has promised to cut European red tape to help British firms compete with continental rivals.

Business Secretary Vince Cable promised to halt the “gold-plating” of European Union directives, where implementation of rules goes beyond the minimum standard required.

The move, which will come into effect immediately, fulfils a commitment in the coalition agreement.

Under the new arrangements, announced in a Commons written statement, text from European directives will be copied directly into UK law.

“The direct copy-out principle will mean that British interpretations of European law are not unfairly restricting British companies,” Mr Cable told MPs.

Under the new arrangements ministers will review legislation implementing a European directive every five years, including a consultation with businesses about how rules are being applied.

Mr 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.

“The new principles are a first step towards working with British business and Europe to make sure that we introduce EU rules in a way that will not harm the UK economy.

“By cutting the red tape that can reduce competitiveness and making sure that businesses are involved in the process, both before and after, through five-yearly reviews, we can get the best deal possible for British companies.”