The Department for Work and Pensions has published a Ministerial consultation document on the next stage of the proposed merger of the Health and Safety Commission (HSC) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
The consultation document argues that a union would bring the governance arrangements of both bodies in line with best practice. It would also provide a more robust governance framework.
Announcing the consultation, Health and Safety Minister Lord McKenzie of Luton (pictured), said: “The present arrangements for the governance of health and safety in Great Britain have served us well over the years. However, it is now the right time to review the structures which date back to the 1970s, as the world of work has changed significantly.
“I am confident that the changes set out in this consultation will not increase the burdens on businesses, but will strengthen the accountability and focus of the present system, provide a better and clearer service to stakeholders and enhance health and safety outcomes all round.”
The consultation closes on October 31. Stakeholders should emails their views to ruth.feather@dwp.gsi.gov.uk