Construction firms 'should be compelled to train apprentices'

The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has called for a ruling meaning that only firms which train and employ apprentices would be eligible for government work.

According to the organisation, compelling firms to employ apprentices in this way could be the only solution to tackling a skills shortage in the construction industry.

"The skills shortage in the construction sector coupled with growing evidence that migrant workers ... are now returning to their home countries will leave the UK in a precarious position," said Brian Berry, director of external affairs for the FMB.

Mr Berry added that unless the government and the construction sector work together to combat the problem, the industry will be in a "dangerous position".

The FMB has called on the industry and government to tackle the problem collectively by providing incentives to train apprentices, change marketing of apprenticeships to encourage new participants and provide mentors from within the sector to encourage more workers, among other measures.

According to its website, the FMB was established more than 60 years ago and is one of the largest trade associations in the construction industry.


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