Business Secretary tells Architectural Technologists they are making 'major contribution' to economic recovery

The Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng has written to all those working in the construction sector stating they can continue to operate during the new national lockdown.

Mr Kwarteng writes: "I would like to take this opportunity to restate the Government position, which is that firms and tradespeople in the construction sector and its supply chain, including merchants, suppliers and product manufacturers, should continue to operate during this national lockdown. I would also like to make it clear that where it is essential to travel or stay in accommodation, whether to get to your work or for the purposes of carrying out your work, those in the industry are able to do so."

Kwarteng, who was previously construction minister for just a month before his promotion last week, replacing the outgoing Alok Sharma, said the industry should carry on: “It is vital that construction continues through these unsettling times and I want to reassure you that the government values the crucial contribution your sector is making.” 

“Whether delivering on large or small construction sites, and in people’s homes across the country, in builders’ merchants, designing and project managing schemes or producing construction and mineral products, you are making a major contribution to the economic recovery following COVID-19,” he added.

He also reiterates the importance of following the Construction Leadership Council's Site Operating Procedures (SOP) and Branch Operating Procedures, which reflect the latest guidance from the Government. 

Version 7 of the SOP is available here. 

The Branch Operating Guidelines can be found here.

You can read the full letter at the link here.