Posts by National Federation of Builders
HMRC confirms job retention scheme due to make payments this month
The Chief Executive of Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC), Jim Harra, has today announced that the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) for furloughed workers is due to open on 20th April 2020 but the National Federation of Builders is warning against further delay. The CJRS was announced on 20th March 2020 and is due…
Read MoreNFB asks CITB to cancel 2020 levy
The National Federation of Builders (NFB) has today written to the chief executive of the CITB, Sarah Beale, asking that CITB consider cancelling the 2020 levy, to help aid cash-flow in the construction industry. Commenting in the letter, Richard Beresford, chief executive of the National Federation of Builders (NFB) said: “It is highly likely that…
Read MoreNFB warns Government of cash-flow crisis amid continuing construction
The National Federation of Builders (NFB) is warning the Government of an impending cash-flow crisis in the construction industry as its members continue to wait to hear when the Government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) will open and be available to make payments. The Treasury had previously pledged that the portal, set up to support…
Read MoreA lack of clarity is shutting down construction
Members of the National Federation of Builders (NFB) have expressed concerns that the lack of clarity from the Government is causing the construction industry to close down. As well as reducing productivity to ensure on site social distancing, reduced access to materials and public opinion has made it extremely difficult for industry to operate. Richard…
Read MoreSupporting the construction industry is paramount
During the daily Downing Street coronavirus briefing, Health Secretary, Matt Hancock echoed the government’s stance that construction sites can keep working if workers are able to stick to social distancing rules. He said: “The judgment we have made is that in work, in many instances, the 2m rule can be applied. Where possible, people should…
Read MoreWelcome news to support the self employed
The Chancellor has announced a range of packages to support the self-employed, which mirrors the offering made to directly employed workers. The scheme’s eligibility is for anyone earning less than £50,000, is based on the last three years tax returns and covers 80% of profits, up to £2,500. HMRC will directly contact those who are…
Read MoreA consistent message will keep construction safe
The Government has been working hard with industry to ensure that construction is heard and supported throughout this pandemic. Industry guidance will improve onsite working practices, however, construction also requires a consistent message so that we can best protect our industry. Richard Beresford, chief executive of the National Federation of Builders (NFB), said: “The Prime…
Read MoreConstruction needs specific COVID-19 working practice guidelines
As well as offering member guidance on government intervention and stopping the transmission and spread of COVID-19, the National Federation of Builders (NFB) has been frequently speaking to its members about safe practices they have implemented in their businesses and on site. Industry does not want to stop working and this puts construction in an…
Read MoreSafe working environments in construction are paramount
In a televised address, the Prime Minister announced a series of strict measures aimed at limiting the spread of the COVID-19 virus. He announced that people must now stay home or risk facing fines. People will only be allowed to leave their home for the following purposes: shopping for basic necessities, as infrequently as possible…
Read MoreChancellor unveils wage rescue package
The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak has announced a wage subsidy package intended to protect millions of jobs. He and the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson have faced increasing pressure to provide additional support for businesses as many were warning of collapse, putting many jobs at risk. In his speech, Sunak announced the launch of the coronavirus job…
Read MoreIt’s time for the Government to act again
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic will have a disastrous impact on the construction industry. There have been a number of measures announced to support UK businesses such as the £330 billion economy boosting package announced by the Chancellor and delivery drivers being considered key workers. This will all help, however, with some industries understandably receiving special…
Read MorePlanning reform may actually happen
Housing Secretary, Robert Jenrick has set out the Government’s ambitious planning reforms ahead of the planning white paper set to be released in spring. Jenrick set out a number of proposals intended to revive the planning system and get Britain building. Notable announcements included the launch of a brownfield mapping and the proposal for developers…
Read MoreRetrofitting call to arms
The National Federation of Builders (NFB) agrees with others in the industry, that a retrofitting and future homes revolution is needed. However, without industry working together, we cannot achieve it. Richard Beresford, chief executive of the NFB, said: “Industry needs to work together to ensure we have the mechanisms, knowledge and expertise to achieve change.…
Read MoreThe UK requires a retrofitting revolution
Members of the National Federation of Builders (NFB) and House Builders Association (HBA) have a strong history of stimulating green policies. From installing renewables and building energy efficient housing with British made products, to supporting biodiversity policy and writing low carbon reports, we’ve always recognised the need for a sustainable future. However, with more than…
Read MoreQueen’s speech was a first step to deliver certainty
During the state opening of Parliament, the Queen set out the Government’s legislative agenda. Richard Beresford, chief executive of the National Federation of Builders (NFB), said: “We are pleased to see the Government provide much needed Brexit certainty for our members. However, while the new immigration system is being shaped, a temporary construction VISA should…
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