Legislative and Regulatory Reform (Regulatory Functions) (Amendment) Order 2009

My Lords, I, too, thank the Minister for introducing this measure. Indeed, as has already been said, we cannot but approve of the aim to reduce the burden of regulation and bureaucracy on all people and businesses, particularly small businesses. However, one aspect that concerns these Benches is the difficulty of getting clarity as to exactly what is being proposed today in order that we may discuss it. That in itself is an area of concern. Can the Minister give an assurance that, in order to achieve the aims set out, the order does not place too many burdens on small businesses? Trying to ensure that regulation is carried out in a proportionate and transparent way could have the reverse effect if small businesses, in particular, find difficulty in coming to terms with what they are being asked to do. I believe that I am correct in saying that a review is proposed in 2011. How do the Government intend to carry out this review process? The Minister said that a great deal of consultation took place before the order was introduced but, in order to assess the results such a short time after its introduction, many people will need to be consulted and asked for their views, particularly those with small businesses. I would be pleased to know exactly what effect the Minister feels this will have on small businesses. Will we hear back from them about how the better regulation system is operating?