The government has made its first move to put cutting red tape on the statute books.

The Legislative and Regulatory Reform Bill was introduced to Parliament on January 11.

Business groups including the British Chambers of Commerce praised the proposals. Director general David Frost said: “Employers have warmly welcomed this Bill, which could be a major step forward in the drive to reduce the burden of regulation on business.

“They will now be looking for the government to fully implement its programme and achieve a reduction in the costs of regulation.”