400k Homes At Risk From Skills Shortage

The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has warned that the skill shortage in the construction industry could scupper George Osborne’s “bold” housing plan to deliver 400,000 new homes.  A headline pledge in his Autumn Statement, the Chancellor made housing a key part of his vision, but also made it clear that the Government sees little housing need beyond the crisis in home ownership. But regardless of the politics of the matter, homes – whether to buy or rent – must be built and that needs the people with the necessary skills. But the construction industry faces a growing skills gap, as the FMB reminded in the wake of the announcements. “’George the Builder’ will need a new generation of ‘real’ builders to make his vision for housing a reality,” said Brian Berry, the FMB’s chief executive. Read more on the FMB website.