Housebuilders urge Nadhim Zahawi to ‘be radical'
Housebuilders have called on new construction minister Nadhim Zahawi to embrace modern methods of construction as the Tory MP becomes the third person to hold the post this year.
Zahawi (pictured), who co-founded opinion research group YouGov in 2000 before becoming MP for Stratford-on-Avon in 2010, replaced Andrew Stephenson, who was moved to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office as part of new prime minister Boris Johnson’s cabinet reshuffle.
Reacting to Zahawi’s appointment Dave Sheridan, executive chairman at modular homes manufacturer Ilke Homes, said it came at a crucial time for the construction industry.
He said: "With an ageing workforce and a historically low number of young people entering the sector, Zahawi must be radical in his plans, if we are to address the structural issues that are strangling the sector.
"So too must he address the on-going issues surrounding build quality in the UK, ensuring that people have the high-quality homes they deserve."
Sheridan also said he hoped Zahawi would embrace modern methods of construction to tackle both these issues.
Stephenson, who was the latest in a string of short-serving construction ministers, replaced Richard Harrington in April.
Harrington, who quit at the end of March in protest of the government’s handling of the UK's departure from the EU, said a no-deal Brexit would have “widespread and long-standing implications for everyone. The economy may take five to 10 years to adjust to the new reality.”
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