The government is trying to convince retailers of its intentions to reduce business regulation with the launch of a new scheme to cut red tape.

The Retail Enforcement Pilot, which will run in Warwickshire and Bexley, Kent, is a partnership scheme between local and national enforcement agencies and businesses. The pilot aims to cut down on multiple inspection visits to retailers; to apply a common standard across enforcement agencies; promote best practice; and improve the quality of information supplied to businesses. A new CD-Rom has been produced to allow retailers in the areas concerned to draw up a checklist to ensure they are meeting legal requirements. The scheme was launched at last week’s Trading Standards Institute conference.