Government to consult on 'construction champion'

The government will consult on whether or not to appoint a new 'construction champion', it has revealed.

The civil service position of Chief Construction Officer, the creation of which was recommended by the Business & Enterprise Committee report into the industry, would serve as the main point of contact between industry and government.

The Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) said that although the terms and scope of the role were yet to be confirmed, the Chief Construction Officer's duties could include:

• Helping to co-ordinate the timing of major public sector construction projects.
• Championing the industry's image.
• Working with OGC to promote best practice in procurement.
• Helping to oversee the implementation of government policy.
• Promoting innovation in the industry.
• Promoting regulatory consistence across departments.

Business Secretary John Hutton said: "We have known for some time that the industry has felt it needs more dedicated Whitehall support and for government departments to be more joined-up and holistic in their approach to procurement and policy development.

"That is why we have embraced the BERR Committee's recommendation regarding the creation of a new role to 'champion' the sector and to ensure that Government remains consistent and focussed in its relationship with this vital sector."

The government's full response to the report, which was published in July this year, is expected by the end of this month.