Health and safety exemptions for the self employed condemned
The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has expressed concern following proposals to exempt self-employed people in low-risk sectors who do not employ anyone from health and safety rules.
Richard Jones of the IOSH said the move, which was announced in the Queen’s speech last week, was “short sighted and misleading” and implied that health and safety requirements are unnecessary or dispensable for certain groups. “There is also a case to suggest that exemption will discourage self-employed businesses from expanding and taking on staff,” he added.
Awards for successful high-street rejuvenation
Seven towns that demonstrated innovative ways of revitalising their high streets have been awarded a share of the £1 million High Street Renewal Award, Local Growth Minister Mark Prisk has announced. Towns recognised by the Award include Altrincham in Greater Manchester, where landlords and retailers worked together to bring empty shops back into use; Rotherham, where support for independent retailers led to increased footfall on the high street; and Gloucester, where support for start up and growing firms resulted in record new business registrations in the area.
