Sussex Enterprise is backing new figures which show that Government red tape will cost British business £10 billion over the life of this Parliament.

The "Burdens Barometer", which estimates the cost to business of the paperwork involved in complying with certain Government regulations, is part of a campaign by the British Chambers of Commerce to tackle a major frustration of businesses across the country.

Ken Caldwell, chief executive of Sussex Enterprise, the Chamber of Commerce, TEC and Business Link for Sussex, welcomed the news that the Government has now appointed a head of the Small Business Service, one of whose key aims is to reverse the flow of red tape.

The initiative will be backed by a new cabinet Star Chamber with the right to call ministers to account. Mr Caldwell said: "It has become almost standard for successive secretaries of state for trade and industry to promise to tackle red tape, but none have yet succeeded.

"I have talked to many sceptics who believe the SBS will go the same way but we believe it shows more signs of determination to tackle the issue than many. We are giving David Irwin, its new head, our full support in giving it his best shot."

Mr Irwin will report directly to the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry and is promised direct access to other Government departments whose work affects the lives of small businesses.

Sussex Enterprise is keeping businesses up to date with new legislation that affects them and participating in the British Chamber's Cut Red Tape campaign through its newly relaunched magazine, website and helpline.

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