The Chancellor’s Spring Statement was a missed an opportunity to boost construction activity at a time when house building is falling and more builders are leaving the industry, say the Federation of Master Builders (FMB)
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB said: “Today’s Spring Statement was a missed opportunity to deliver the decisive action the construction industry urgently needs. While the Chancellor focused on reiterating previous announcements, small builders were left waiting for the practical measures that would unlock growth, boost housebuilding, and drive progress on retrofitting the UK’s homes. The Chancellor’s recognition that more needs to be done to get young people into apprenticeships and employment was welcome but the industry has heard similar promises before. Without clear policy detail, commitment to funding, and a long‑term plan to support SMEs, warm words do not translate into real jobs or skills.”
Berry concluded: “This Spring Statement could have set out concrete steps to support small and medium-sized builders to deliver the homes the country desperately needs, accelerate energy‑efficient retrofitting, and introduce a robust licensing system to raise standards across the industry. Instead, it was another chance for real progress that has been allowed to pass by. If the Government is serious about economic growth, improved productivity, and meeting its housing and climate ambitions, it must move quickly from rhetoric to action and put small builders at the heart of its plans.”
About the Federation of Master Builders
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 business building services to help them succeed. The FMB is committed to raising quality in the construction industry and members have to pass a professional vetting and independent inspection process. The FMB also offers a free service to consumers called ‘Find a Builder’. Please visit www.fmb.org.uk.
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The FMB constantly lobbies Government at all levels to boost output and raise standards of safety and professionalism in construction. To keep abreast of our campaigns and news, and to join the debate, follow us at @fmbuilder, find us on LinkedIn or like us at www.facebook.com/FederationofMasterBuilders.