Question to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, if he will make an assessment of the implications for the Government's polices of the Federation of Master Builders’ report, Licence to build: A pathway to licensing UK construction.

The Department has regular discussions with the construction industry, including the Federation of Master Builders, about how best to improve the standard of work undertaken by firms and sole traders in the sector, and to protect consumers.

The Government has already endorsed the TrustMark Scheme which works to educate consumers on recognising and reporting rogue traders operating in the home building and repair market. TrustMask is actively involved with Trading Standards to provide further protection to consumers affected by rogue builders; and to identify local traders who have undergone independent checks for both trade competence and good trading practice. This scheme gives consumers increased confidence and ability to choose registered businesses including builders who adhere to and maintain high standards.