Provision of Services Regulations 2009: proposed reforms

The Provision of Services Regulations 2009 (“the Regulations”) provide a framework of rules for how services are regulated in the UK. They ensure that authorisation schemes (for example, licences that businesses or individuals must secure before providing a service) which are administered by competent authorities (for example, government departments and independent regulators) are proportionate, justified in the public interest, and conducted in a fair, accessible and transparent way for businesses

Previous evidence from service providers and competent authorities indicated that change is needed to the Regulations. DBT is therefore considering reforming the Regulations as part of the Retained EU Law programme.

These proposals include making sure businesses can apply for licences all year round; providing clarity on when competent authorities can derogate from certain requirements of the Regulations; and expanding the benefits of the Regulations to non-UK businesses.

DBT is seeking views from competent authorities, service providers and service recipients on the proposed reforms through this consultation.

The documents include:

• a consultation document setting out the proposed reforms, the rationale for these and questions for respondents
• a consultation stage impact assessment setting out the estimated costs and benefits of the new approach

This consultation forms part of the government’s Smarter Regulation programme of regulatory reform announcements that began in May with publication of Smarter Regulation to Grow the Economy. Smarter regulation is about improving regulation across the board, ensuring it is clear and only used where necessary and proportionate.

All responses will be considered before a decision is made on the reforms.