The construction industry needs at least two years to adapt to any new immigration system
National Federation of Builders
The CBI is correct when it identifies that business needs ‘at least two years to adapt to any new immigration system’ but in the case of construction, two years is an absolute minimum, writes the NFB.
Richard Beresford, chief executive of the National Federation of Builders (NFB), said: “Not only does it take a minimum of two years to study for most construction qualifications but proficiency is developed after a number of years in a role. We must ensure that we retain expertise, which is why a construction specific visa is necessary.”
There are also a number of concerns that the Government has not yet understood how vital it is that the regional economy is given the tools and business certainty to mitigate the challenges that Brexit will bring.
Beresford, added: “From late payment and retentions, to procurement and planning, the Government must recognise how important a role it has in enabling a sustainable transition process and sustainable future. Business must be able to plan for its future in a certain environment. Ensuring that regional players have the confidence to invest in staff for existing projects like Heathrow expansion and new staff for future ones, like HS2 is a necessary ingredient if we’re to level up regional disparities and ensure Brexit is a success.”
