The Minister said that construction was a crucial engine of economic growth with the sector directly providing work for more than three million people in 300,000 firms and generating eight per cent of GDP. He added that the Government was working to create the right environment for businesses to grow by slashing red tape and creating a more competitive tax regime.
Mr Prisk told the AGM that the Government wanted to help the construction industry seize new business opportunities:
鈥淥ne of the most important issues for construction lies in the world-wide shift to a low carbon economy and built environment that needs to happen in the years ahead. UK firms have huge expertise in this area and we can offer that knowledge to other countries as they grapple with the challenges of the modern built environment 鈥� particularly the need to design sustainable, low-carbon communities for the future.鈥�
Mark was joined at the NSCC event by Chief Construction Adviser Paul Morrell OBE, who is leading the Innovation and Growth Team report on Low Carbon Construction. The report, which will be published on 29 November, reflects NSCC鈥檚 view that it is only by working together that the industry will be able to make the most of the opportunity presented by the Government鈥檚 green strategy and realise the target 80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2050.
New NSCC President David Jones elected at the AGM said:
鈥淚t was an honour for NSCC and its members to be joined by both the Minister and the Chief Construction Adviser at its flagship event. This clearly demonstrates the high level of support that the supply chain has within Government and we will continue to work with Mark, Paul and their colleagues within Government to address the issues facing the industry and the wider UK economy over the coming year.鈥�
The NSCC Annual Lunch, supported by B&CE Benefit Schemes, Centor Insurance & Risk Management, Construction Industry Publications, Creditlook, CSCS, Cut the Carbon, Hilti, Wedlake Bell and Yell, was the biggest yet with over 175 guests enjoying the champagne reception and 3-course lunch.
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