Furlough extension is 'crucial lifeline' for Derbyshire's construction industry

The new extended furlough plans have thrown a lifeline to protect building supply chains in Derbyshire, according to a leading trade body.
John NewcombJohn Newcomb
John Newcomb

A leading trade body said the furlough extension has thrown the construction industry a crucial lifeline, which will protect a vital element of the Derbyshire economy.

The Builders Merchants Federation (BMF), has been actively pressing for a more flexible programme from the government, as a member of the Construction Leadership Council, which is co-ordinating the industry’s response to the Covid-19 crisis.

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John Newcomb, BMF chief executive, said: “An incredible 80 per cent of all building products used in the construction of homes and buildings are manufactured in the UK.

“We need to protect this home-grown sector, which creates vital jobs in manufacturing, construction and the service sector.

“The extension to the furlough and the new levels of flexibility it brings have thrown us a lifeline that will enable us to do that.

“With our members now able to plan ahead, livelihoods will be protected, with the number one priority being safety.”

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The industry has already produced new branch operating guidelines for its members to follow, which set a blueprint for procedures during the Covid-19 pandemic.

John Newcomb added: “We are preparing for the construction industry to get back on site.

“The number one priority is to minimise the risk of transmitting coronavirus.”

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