National Federation of Builders has welcomed elements of a safety-first Queen’s Speech
National Federation of Builders
The National Federation of Builders (NFB) has welcomed elements of the Queen’s Speech but is disappointed in the lack of progress in a number of key areas.
The strong focus on environmental regulation, climate change, infrastructure and building safety has been warmly received. The NFB has been working hard with the Government on policies to support these priorities, such as biodiversity net gain and energy efficient buildings.
It was also pleasing to have the right to remain for European Union citizens, greater funding for education and building safety standards declared.
However, the NFB is disappointed to see a lack of focus on construction and housebuilding, where unsuitable housing supply continues to devastate our businesses, communities and economy.
Richard Beresford, chief executive of the NFB, said: “A national infrastructure strategy is much needed, as are enshrined environmental principles. Both ambitions can go a long way to help solve our climate emergency.
“However, apart from building safety standards, the Queen’s Speech did not have a strong focus on housebuilding and construction. Planning reform is necessary for industry and the economy, and we are therefore alarmed that the Government chose to omit planning from its ambitions.”
Pledging to leave the EU on 31 October 2019, the Government also announced the following actions of relevance to the building sector:
- ensure EU citizens have a right to remain
- bring in new building safety standards
- enshrine environmental principles in law
- deliver a fast, reliable broadband network
- implement a national infrastructure strategy
- increase funding for education and technical learning
- prioritise tackling climate change and improve air and water quality
- publish a white paper to unleash regional potential
