Back to the Empire? Consult government to consider ‘overbearing’ rules forcing traders to use metric measurements | UK News

A government consultation that could mean more use of imperial measurements is due to come out on Friday.

In 2000, the EU Weights and Measures Directive forced merchants to use a ruler when selling packaged or bulk goods such as fruits and vegetables.

They may still use pounds and ounces but must also list grams and kilograms, with a few exceptions.

The 12-week consultation – followed by Whitehall sources earlier this week – will check how this rule can be changed to give traders more freedom.

For example, it could result in fruit and vegetables being priced in British pounds only – or in pounds with less obvious equivalents.

The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy said a review of “overbearing EU rules” would restore “common sense” after Brexit.

It denies that means extra costs for businesses and insists companies will not be forced to make changes.

Businesses, trade associations and consumer groups are among those who will take part in the consultation.

Business Secretary Paul Scully said: “While we think of our fruits and vegetables in terms of pounds, the legacy of EU rules means we must legally sell them by the kilogram. France.

“Our consultation today will help stores serve their customers the way they want them to.”

‘Complete and complete nonsense’

However, Tory colleague and Asda chairman Lord Rose said returning pounds and ounces was “completely pointless” and it would “additional costs” and would only please “a small minority who have held back”. compress the past”.

The potential revival of the empire comes after the prime minister’s appointment Jacob Rees-Mogg earlier this year as Brexit Opportunity Minister with a short to cut the Brussels red tape.

Since the 2019 election campaign, however, Boris Johnson has promised a “new era of generosity and tolerance for traditional measurements” and declared measuring in pounds and ounces a “freedom.” Ancient”.

In a policy paper titled “Brexit Chances” last September, the Cabinet Office announced it would “reexamine the EU’s ban on imperial and institutional marking and sales.” legislature in due time”.

Then, Brexit Secretary Lord Frost declared: “Overbearing regulations are often formulated and agreed upon in Brussels with little consideration of the UK’s national interest. We now have the opportunity to do so. different things.”