THE Chambers of Commerce movement is calling for radical measures to reform the regulatory environment and reduce business taxation.

Budget 2001 submissions from the British Chambers of Commerce suggest that this will be critical if the government wants to convince UK firms of its pro-business credentials.The BCC's submission "Growth through Simplicity" calls for full clarification and regular review of the costs and benefits of business regulation and for action to reduce the level and complexity of taxation on UK firms.

It argues for commitment from the Prime Minister to present an annual Regulatory Budget, making transparent the costs and benefits of new regulations; the introduction of shadow regulatory budgets to encourage officials to think twice before regulating; and a probationary period for all new regulations during which their impact can be assessed.

Mr Andrew Ratcliff, Chief Executive (designate) for Bolton and Bury Chamber, said: "The unequivocal message coming from our members is that the sheer quantity of unnecessary red tape is damaging enterprise, job creation and growth.

"Business is right to demand a major overhaul of regulatory reform."