Member

On the issues raised by the noble Lord, Lord Offord, we have discussed the approach to regulation here. My understanding is that the Environment Agency will regulate the requirements in a proportional way that minimises the regulatory burden for small projects with the least environmental impact. Of course, there will be a small administrative cost to businesses. Our analysis suggests a total cost to business of £4.2 million per year across the economy. These costs derive from importing a cost associated with meeting the requirements. The noble Lord, Lord Offord, acknowledged that this work was undertaken by the previous Government. We have continued that work and adopted a consistent approach.