The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has rejected the proposal from the Department for Work and Pensions to merge CITB with ECITB. The FMB responded to the Government’s consultation on the future of the industry training boards, warning that a merger between CITB and ECITB risks weakening the voice of small building firms unless major reforms are built into the new structure.
The FMB has said there is no clear evidence that a single, unified training board would improve skills outcomes for small and micro building companies. It argues that the biggest risk is that the needs of SMEs, which make up most construction businesses, could be pushed aside in a larger, more centralised organisation.
The FMB is also clear that reform is needed regardless of whether the merger goes ahead. If the Government proceeds, the new body must be set up in a way that gives smaller firms a stronger voice and delivers better value for levy-paying employers. That means formally integrating Prescribed Organisations into the governance structure, improving accountability and transparency around decision making and levy spend, and creating a more collaborative, industry-first culture.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB commented:
“Small building companies are not convinced this merger is being driven by what is best for them or for construction skills more broadly. The Government has not made a clear case for how merging CITB and ECITB would improve outcomes for small builders, and there is a real risk that the voice of smaller firms will be diluted even further in a larger organisation with the introduction of large multinational engineering firms.”
Berry continued:
“If the Department for Work and Pensions is determined to press ahead, it must ensure the new organisation is built around the reality of the construction sector. That means giving representative bodies a formal place in governance, being far more transparent about how decisions are made and how levy funding is spent and shifting to a culture that listens to and works alongside the industry. Without those changes, small builders will once again be asked to pay in without getting the support they need back out.”
The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is the largest trade association in the UK construction industry representing thousands of firms in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Established in 1941 to protect the interests of small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms, the FMB is independent and non-profit making, lobbying for members’ interests at both the national and local level. The FMB is a source of knowledge, professional advice and support for its members, providing a range of business building services to help them succeed. The FMB is committed to raising quality in the construction industry and members have to pass a professional vetting and independent inspection process. The FMB also offers a free service to consumers called ‘Find a Builder’. Please visit www.fmb.org.uk.
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The FMB constantly lobbies Government at all levels to boost output and raise standards of safety and professionalism in construction. To keep abreast of our campaigns and news, and to join the debate, follow us at @fmbuilder, find us on LinkedIn or like us at www.facebook.com/FederationofMasterBuilders.