What is the Primary Authority Register?
The Primary Authority Register is a secure online service that supports the operation of the scheme. It contains details on every partnership, provides a forum for communications, and allows primary authorities to make important documents and business information readily available to local regulators.
How are national regulators involved?
Since decisions taken by primary authorities can have significance for the way businesses are regulated in general, they are required to take into account guidance from relevant national regulators when providing advice and creating inspection plans.
National regulators are a source of expertise for primary authorities, while primary authorities can help national regulators better understand and engage with businesses.
How is the Office for Product Safety and Standards involved?
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) exercises the statutory responsibility for the operation of Primary Authority on behalf of the Secretary of State, nominating partnerships, issuing guidance and resolving determinations. It also manages the Primary Authority Register.
What if I Operate Outside England?
All primary authority advice should be seen as, at least, best practice – you can’t be going far wrong if you are following it. However, to have true legal standing in Wales you need to have the advice signed off by a Welsh primary authority but don’t worry BFFF can help members access the right advice from authorities based in Wales.
In Scotland and Northern Ireland, the Scheme does not operate in the same way and separate advice may be needed, given some of the small differences in legal regulation in the food area.
