LONDON: At today's meeting of the Strategic Forum for Construction, Peter Mandelson announced that he was commissioning a review of the construction industry to ensure it was 'fit for purpose' for delivering a low carbon future.
Michael Ankers, chief executive of the Construction Products Association welcomed the introduction of the construction Innovation and Growth Team (ITG). "This demonstrates the key part the industry has to play in the Government's 'New Industry New Jobs' agenda and in delivering the low carbon economy.
"Product manufacturers and suppliers have a vital role to play in developing the innovative products and solutions that will determine the construction industry's response to the challenge and opportunities that this presents, and we look forward to participating fully."
The review will assess the strengths of and opportunities for the UK construction industry in a low carbon economy and consider how the UK can be a world leader in this sector.
This review will be led by the chief construction adviser and will be undertaken by a mix of industry experts and those with wider business experience.
In 'New Industry New Jobs', the Government set out its intention to unlock potential in a number of specific growth areas - low carbon, the digital economy, life sciences and advanced manufacturing. Construction is one of the key sectors that will deliver these ambitions
"Together with the recent decision to appoint a chief construction adviser, it puts construction right at the front of the shop window," said Mr Ankers.
"It is critical that the industry works closely with the Government on this agenda and we now have a clear focus and framework to ensure proper and strategic engagement."
The review will follow the IGT model. It has worked successfully in the past with both the aerospace and automotive sectors. The IGT aims to have its first full meeting in October.
