Marvin OnumonuThe Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has backed the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee’s call for a construction and retrofit skills plan.
The Committee published its report into workforce planning for clean, secure energy, warning the Government would miss its 2030 and 2050 targets without urgent action on the skills gap.
MPs called for a nationally recognised, industry-backed programme to boost skills in construction and retrofit.
Brian Berry, CEO of the FMB, said: “The FMB strongly welcomes the Committee’s call for a nationally recognised, industry-backed construction and retrofit skills programme.
“This is exactly the kind of bold intervention we need to tackle the skills crisis and deliver the Government’s ambitious targets for clean energy and housing.
“Small builders are ready to play their part, but they need clarity, long-term certainty, and practical support to train the next generation.”
Berry added: “The UK is not going to be able to meet its housing and retrofit goals without investing in home-grown talent.
“SMEs are the backbone of the construction industry, yet too often they are overlooked in skills planning.”
He said: “A national programme must work for small firms, with flexible training routes and funding that makes it viable for them to take on apprentices and upskill their workforce.
“We are currently experiencing a skills crisis, and so the Government must work with industry together to create clear career pathways and make construction and retrofit attractive to young people.
“If we are serious about hitting our net zero targets, we need to do more to create high quality jobs in every community.”
