The manifesto outlines plans to encourage investment in physical building and equipment in addition to how to improve the working of the apprenticeship levy and helping employers to invest in skills.

Brian Berry, chief executive at the FMB (pictured above), said: “The construction industry must not face a ‘cliff edge’ when it comes to skilled migrant labour, if we are to meet our housebuilding and infrastructure targets.

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“The Conservative party must, therefore, ensure that its Australian-style, points-based system incorporates priority occupations and reflects the needs of businesses.”

Brian stated that the construction industry currently relies on skilled labour from the EU and will continue to do so until more young people are encouraged to work in the sector.

“The Conservatives’ pledge to invest £3bn in the National Skills Fund, and also in further education, is welcomed in order to reverse the decline in entry-level apprenticeships in the sector.

“It’s not just a question of greater investment, but also reforming the policy landscape, and we look forward to working with the next government to reform the apprenticeship levy to ensure it addresses skills shortages in construction.”