Better regulation
The aim of "better regulation" is to provide a light touch regulatory environment, including reducing and removing unnecessary government regulation, while preserving essential protections for the public, consumers and the workforce. This means less red tape for business and more efficient public services.
The 5 principles of better regulation state that any regulation should be transparent, accountable, proportionate, consistent and targeted where needed. These inform much of the work we do, including our approach to policy making and law reform, the rules and guidelines we set and the services we offer.
Impact assessments
We prepare and publish impact assessments for all regulatory proposals in the intellectual property area, including for European proposals. Impact assessments enable the Government and the public to consider the costs and benefits of possible and actual government interventions in the public, private and third sectors.
Simplification
We are committed to reducing burdens
on business and other users of
the IP system and have identified a number of ways to make the system easier to use including simplified
forms, rules and processes. These measures form part of the Simplification Plan 
for the Department of Innovation Universities and Skills (published in December 2007 and updated annually).
Consultation
Consultation is a key part of the policy-making process. Your views can help shape policy developments and help us to improve the services we offer. In line with government policy and best practice, we consult on new legislation and important policy proposals, including the impacts of such proposals.
More information on wider government better regulation initiatives can
be found on the Better Regulation Executive website .