Putting the minister under the spotlight

Department of Trade & Industry civil servants admit that construction will experience mixed fortunes in its move to their department. One intriguingly said the move would both "please and frustrate" the industry.

Soon after last month's cabinet reshuffle, CJ was reassured that the new minister for industry and energy, Brian Wilson, was committed to carrying on the government's work with the industry, maintaining the Rethinking Construction agenda and hosting the Safety Forum review in October. But, CJ was told in the same breath, construction isn't his only responsibility, so be patient.

Many senior figures in construction are also having to be patient, still waiting for their first meeting with Wilson. Some will be nostalgic for the pre-election 'good old days' when housing and planning minister Nick Raynsford seemed to be available to the construction industry on demand.

CJ will have its first chance to judge Wilson tonight (Wednesday). Wilson is due to appear in person tomorrow at the Birmingham launch of the government's Quality Mark scheme, and CJ is among an exclusive band of industry representatives who have been invited to a meeting with Wilson the night before. Perhaps stung by speculation that he will be a poor substitute for Raynsford, he is keen to meet the trade press to discuss key issues and assess the mood of the industry.

Further details of the meeting are still sketchy, but CJ will push Wilson for his opinion on the big subjects of VAT, safety and the skills shortage. And if there is a particular question you want Wilson to answer, call us today on 020 8652 4642, and we'll put it to him this evening.

CJ will deliver its verdict on our new government representative next week. Watch this space!