Better Regulation Delivery Office
Printable version E-mail this to a friend

Priorities set for improving life in Wales

Improving the quality of life in Wales is at the heart of priorities set out in a new document prepared by the Local Better Regulation Office (LBRO) for the Welsh Assembly Government.

The National Enforcement Priorities for Wales establish four areas on which local authorities should concentrate their regulatory efforts: safer food, more secure communities, healthier workplaces and fairer trading.

The distinctiveness of Welsh communities has driven the assessment, and local circumstances and priorities will require innovative local solutions. First Minister Carwyn Jones said: "This first set of national enforcement priorities reflects the fundamental principles of One Wales - accountable, citizen-centred public services - and this is an important milestone.

"However, it is only the beginning. Together we must continue to work collaboratively to focus efforts around the priorities and deliver real improvements in the quality of life for the people of Wales."

The document has been prepared by the technical experts in local regulation, LBRO, in conjunction with local authorities in Wales, national regulators and professional and representative bodies, following a consultation process through 2009/10.

Chairman of LBRO Clive Grace said: "Local regulation influences everything from the general health of the community through to reducing alcohol misuse and delivering consumer protection; to supporting local economies when tackling issues such as antisocial behaviour and fly-tipping.

"These priorities connect essential concerns that can only be dealt with across all local authorities, whilst clarifying the freedom for councils to tackle what matters to them in their communities. They are a framework to support and inform local choice and action - regulation must focus on outcomes that the people of Wales need."

This is the first time national enforcement priorities have been developed for Wales, and the process has been evidence-based. An expert user group advised the review process and government departments, agencies and national regulators supplied supporting evidence. Consumer and business representative groups and local authorities also provided views and comments.

See the report at www.lbro.org.uk/publications-information.html

 

 

 

Spotlight on women at Serco – Anita’s story