National priorities to focus on outcomes
30/03/10
LBRO has begun the process of refreshing the national enforcement priorities for regulation in England, with the emphasis changing to focus on outcomes and risk.
The priorities were last set by the Rogers Review in 2007 when five areas were selected: air quality, alcohol licensing, hygiene of food businesses, improving health in the workplace and fair trading.
LBRO Chairman Clive Grace said: "The new risk-based approach will help local regulators use their resources more efficiently, and we will be seeking evidence from them during the summer, with the priorities to be published in draft form for consultation in the autumn.
"Following consultation, the final priorities are expected to be put before ministers early in 2011."
Recent experience in updating the national enforcement priorities for Wales, also one of LBRO's statutory duties, has influenced the approach in England.
Clive Grace said: "The focus will be on outcomes and risk and we will be using an evidence-based and consultative approach. Key to this will be the expert user group of representatives from local authorities and professional bodies.
"Our experience with colleagues in Wales is that an expert user group provides an important practitioner input, ensuring that the final priorities reflect both national and local dimensions."
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