Construction Bemoans Missed Opportunity

Friday 29 June 2007

The Construction Products Association today responded to the formation of a new Business Council for Britain to advise the Prime Minister.  The group will cover issues that affect enterprise, business and the long term productivity and competitiveness of the economy. 

Simon Storer, External Affairs Director, said:
“Whilst the Construction Products Association welcomes the principle of the Council, we are extremely concerned that it will contain no representation from construction.  Almost a third of all government investment is construction related.  With a Council comprising fifteen people you would expect that an industry which accounts for nearly 9% of GDP would be invited to the table. 

“Long term productivity of the economy cannot be achieved without a successful construction industry, and it is key to delivering the government’s climate change agenda. 

“The construction products industry alone accounts for 20% of UK manufacturing.  The sector is at the heart of the UK economy, providing essential materials for our homes, schools, hospitals, offices, roads and railways. 

“We will be writing to the Prime Minister to express our concerns and urge him not to miss this opportunity.”