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  Howard - these things you mention are indeed problems for many businesses, these just some of the challenges they face, but that does not impact on the truth of what I say about how difficult it is dealing with red tape and employment issues, these things are not mutually exclusive.
  
  Face the facts - we need growth and it is small and 'nimble' businesses that have the greatest capacity to expand. We need to make it easier for them to do so and take some of the associated risks away associated with employment law and other matters.
  
  Much of what you say is correct Keith but remember, the things you say about the Chinese and Indians were also said about the Japanese 20 odd years ago - market and economies do change the point is we need to keep competitive businesses that must be free to adapt and change. The Chinese economy is changing now from gaining growth at a fantastic rate from investment to one driven by consumer demand with a more modest growth rate. This is all healthy. What is not healthy is to stifle trade or become protectionist. These kind of responses were a disaster in the past and would be again. Flexible labour markets are an essential element to keeping competitive and adaptable businesses. It is the smaller businesses that need most help in this, not cash, not protection but the ability to control and manage their enterprises with fewer govoernment imposed extra risks and disincentives to expand and grow. Some over the top H&S and other matters you mention are indeed part of these self-imposed barriers.
  
  Utilities, incidentally, are subject to market forces in pricing and worldwide demand is such that utilities, electricity and gas, will rise in price - this is inevitable and is one reason for moving to renewables (though there is a lot of daft stuff being done in respect of wind etc...)
  
  I welcome the OFT investigation into petrol prices incidentally. This is the job they should do as there is an apparent contradiction here that should be looked at.

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