THE boss of a top Bury company has criticised the Government for imposing unnecessary "red tape" on businesses.

The attack has come from Mr Brian Ward, managing director of leading ductwork company Senior Hargreaves and president of EEF (Engineering Employers' Federation) Lancashire.

Speaking at the recent EEF Lancashire annual meeting, Mr Ward launched a strong attack on government policies.

"It is disturbing that, at a time of such pressure on the manufacturing sector, the Government has come forward with a never-ending stream of regulation and bureaucracy," said Mr Ward.

"Much is unnecessary, but imposes a vast additional cost on business."

Mr Ward announced that EEF Lancashire would be lobbying hard at regional and local level to draw these problems to the attention of MPs, MEPs and government agencies.

The organisation would also be looking for "vigorous action" at national level and in Europe to discourage any further new legislation until some account had been taken of the real costs to industry and employment.

Mr Ward said that despite the difficult trading conditions for the industry, EEF Lancashire had enjoyed a successful year.

Membership had increased by 24 companies and by about 4,000 employees.

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