Minister asks for industry wish list

Contract Journal has learnt that the Department of Trade & Industry (DTI) is carrying out a consultation exercise on the problems facing the construction industry.

Construction minister Nigel Griffiths has written to assorted construction bodies and trade associations asking for their comments and suggestions on how to turn the UK construction industry back into a world leader.

Although no deadline has been set for organisations to respond to the minister's request for information, many have already returned their official responses.

The British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) director general Derek Tordoff said: "In order to help achieve change, the DTI needs to develop and implement a new structure for industry dialogue and co-operation through sector representative organisations such as the BCSA.

"Construction needs a plan driven by the DTI with the specific brief to meet the aspirations we are all striving for," added Tordoff.

The BCSA's recommendations include: changes to the commercial and contractual framework; supply chain review and integration; "expert" sector based qualification schemes; and tax benefits for overseas working.

The Construction Confed-eration (CC) confirmed it has responded. The CC said it told the minister of its concerns regarding: the removal of the Working Time Directive opt-out clause; health and safety issues; and the government's commitment to its planned investment in infrastructure.