Risky Business
10th Feb 2012
A thorough understanding of the effects of a Government Bill are vital, to ensure no unintended consequence can creep up and hit Ministers somewhere down the legislative pathway.
As such, the Government commissions research into the ‘what if’ scenarios for most Bills, including the Health and Social Care Bill, currently making its slow progress through the House of Lords. The Government commissioned the Risk Register, a full outline of the potential effects of the Bill on the NHS.
The information was meant to be for Minister’s eyes only - however the NHS Information Commissioner has now demanded the register be published, to allow full scrutiny of the Bill’s effects in the Lords. The Government has so far resisted, but part of the research has been leaked - showing potentially serious repercussions on the quality of health services if the reforms are botched by commissioners.
These events show the power of research to shape debate and legislation. A thorough understanding of legislation and its effects are vital to any businesses wanting to engage with the Government or challenge and influence opinion.
Liz Baker - Operations Director