Structural problems

The UK construction industry has been hit hard by the credit crunch (see page 9) but also has more deep seated structural problems, according to the latest report from the House of Commons Business and Enterprise Committee. And it can only change if its customers — the public sector being the biggest — give their support. The report calls on the government to create a new post of “chief construction officer” to tackle the problems, such as inadequate training and supply chain management.

Construction union UCATT said the report failed to go far enough in its recommendations on bogus self-employment and gangmasters. But it did welcome recognition that the government should be more involved.

Construction matters: Ninth Report of Session 2007-08 HC 127-I, www.parliament.uk/parliamentary_committees/berr/becpn51.cfm