Andy Burnham, who was recently elected leader of the Labour party, has formally become Prime Minister today (20th July).

Brian Berry, CEO at the FMB, has argued that “practical measures” are needed by a Burnham-led government to support housing delivery.

These, he argued, include tackling the construction skills shortage, supporting the rollout of energy efficiency upgrades for existing homes and creating business conditions needed for small businesses.

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“Builders will be looking to the new government to match ambition with delivery and create the conditions that will allow SMEs to thrive,” said Brian.

“The UK cannot meet its housing ambitions without a diverse housing market, and that means giving smaller house builders a much greater role in delivering the homes the country needs, including through opportunities in the social and affordable housing sector.”

“Greater progress is also needed to introduce a mandatory licensing scheme for domestic building companies to drive up standards and improve consumer confidence.”