Government measures to unlock the full potential of local builders would maximise the construction sector’s economic recovery and support the country’s transition to net zero, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) in response to construction PMI data published today.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “It is very positive news that construction remains resilient after the Covid-19 pandemic, but concerns in the PMI data about record high material prices reflect the very real worries of our members. With residential construction activity lagging behind other sectors, I urge the Government to use the re-set moment of next week’s Queen’s Speech to lay out a programme that backs Britain’s builders, with a renewed focus on enabling construction SMEs, who make up 99% of the construction industry, to thrive in what is an increasingly costly market.”
Berry continued: “The Government needs to set out a clear plan about how to make our existing homes greener and more energy efficient in order to achieve net zero by 2050. Such a plan would be a boost to local trades who are best placed to retrofit our homes. To make a success of this ‘green revolution’, serious consideration needs to be given to how we solve the industry's skills shortage and ensure that construction is seen as an attractive and fulfilling career for both school leavers and those looking to re-skill. As SMEs train 71% of construction apprentices, they must be at the heart of these conversations.”
Notes to editors
The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is the largest trade association in the UK construction industry representing thousands of firms in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Established in 1941 to protect the interests of small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms, the FMB is independent and non-profit making, lobbying for members’ interests at both the national and local level.
The FMB is a source of knowledge, professional advice and support for its members, providing a range of modern and relevant business building services to help them succeed. The FMB is committed to raising quality in the construction industry and offers a free Find a Builder service to consumers.
