The **absence of red tape** is typically considered a merit of a **unitary government structure**.
Here's why:
In a **unitary structure**, there is a **centralized government** which holds the majority of the power.
This centralized power means **decisions can be made quickly** and efficiently because there are **fewer layers of bureaucracy** to navigate through.
In comparison, structures like the **federal** or **confederal governments** often involve multiple layers of government (e.g., federal, state, local) which can result in **more red tape**.
**Red tape** refers to excessive regulation or rigid conformity to formal rules that can slow down decision-making and governmental processes.
Thus, in this centralized system, the **streamlined processes** and **direct decision-making** reduce the **unnecessary bureaucratic delays** commonly associated with red tape.
Overall, the **unitary structure** is seen as an efficient means to enact policies and changes due to the **reduction of procedural hurdles** that are more common in other government structures.