The Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) was a UK government department responsible for business, enterprise, and regulatory affairs. It was one of the predecessors of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS).
Historical Context
BERR was established in June 2007, following a governmental reorganization that split the former Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). It existed until June 2009, when it merged with the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) to form the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS).
Functions and Responsibilities
BERR was responsible for several key areas:
- Business Support and Development: Encouraging business growth and development within the UK.
- Regulation and Reform: Streamlining regulatory processes and ensuring businesses operated within fair and efficient regulatory frameworks.
- Enterprise Promotion: Promoting entrepreneurship and enterprise across different sectors of the economy.
Key Events and Milestones
- Creation in June 2007: BERR was established as part of a government strategy to focus more intensively on business development and regulatory reform.
- Merger in June 2009: BERR was merged with DIUS to form BIS, reflecting an integrated approach to business, innovation, and skills development.
Organizational Structure
BERR was structured to handle various portfolios:
- Small Business Support: Policies aimed at aiding small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
- Regulatory Reform: Oversight of legislation impacting business operations.
- Sectoral Policies: Focused on specific sectors such as manufacturing, energy, and services.
Importance and Impact
The existence of BERR was crucial for:
- Economic Development: Providing a focused approach to business development.
- Regulatory Streamlining: Simplifying regulatory requirements for businesses.
- Policy Integration: Ensuring coordinated policy across business and regulatory sectors.
Related Terms
- BIS (Department for Business, Innovation and Skills): Successor to BERR, integrating additional functions related to innovation and skills.
- DTI (Department of Trade and Industry): The predecessor to BERR, before its division.
Comparisons
| Feature | BERR | BIS | DTI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Established | June 2007 | June 2009 | Predecessor to BERR |
| Focus Areas | Business, Enterprise, Regulatory Reform | Business, Innovation, Skills | Trade, Industry, Business |
| Organizational Changes | Split from DTI, Merged to form BIS | Merger of BERR and DIUS | Divided into BERR and DIUS |
Interesting Facts
- Short-lived Department: BERR was operational for only two years but had a lasting impact by facilitating the establishment of BIS.
- Focused Reform: It was a period marked by significant reforms aimed at improving business operations and fostering enterprise.
Inspirational Stories
Several businesses credited their growth to the support and streamlined regulations promoted by BERR, illustrating the tangible benefits of effective government policy.
Famous Quotes
- “A healthy business sector is the backbone of a thriving economy.” — Anon
FAQs
What was BERR's main purpose?
When was BERR established and dissolved?
What succeeded BERR?
References
- UK Government Archives
- Historical Overview of BERR and BIS
- Legislative documents related to the creation and dissolution of BERR
Summary
The Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) was a crucial but short-lived UK government department focused on business and regulatory reform. Established in June 2007 and operational until June 2009, BERR played a significant role in supporting business growth and simplifying regulations, paving the way for the integrated approach of its successor, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS).
By fostering enterprise and improving the regulatory landscape, BERR contributed to the UK’s economic development during its tenure. Understanding the historical and functional context of BERR offers insights into the evolution of government support for business and enterprise.
