Contractors today said that the UK’s Government’s plans to boost infrastructure and adult learning will help secure the post-COVID-19 economy.
The UK Government’s legislative agenda, unveiled this morning in the Queen’s Speech at the State Opening of Parliament, focusses on infrastructure investment, adult education, and boosting economic growth.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II announced that proposals will be taken forward to transform connectivity by rail and bus with a High Speed Rail Bill, and that 5G mobile coverage and gigabit-capable broadband will be extended over the course of this Parliament.
In addition, legislation will be introduced to support a ‘lifetime skills guarantee’ to enable people to access high-quality education and training throughout their lives, and eight new Freeports will be created to act as hubs for trade and to regenerate communities.
Her Majesty also announced that the UK Government will introduce new legislation to simplify the procurement process in the public sector.
Commenting, Director of External Affairs for the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) Marie-Claude Hemming said: “The UK Government’s legislative agenda shows a clear commitment to boosting the UK’s recovery from COVID-19 through investing in infrastructure and skills.
“We welcome news that the Government will take steps to simplify procurement in the public sector and look forward to working with all stakeholders to reform this system to the ultimate benefit of the UK taxpayer.
“As part of this, we hope the Government will consider the findings of Professor David Mosey’s independent review of frameworks.
“As the UK emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is vital that we invest in the people and projects that will enable us to build back better, so that we can deliver a high-growth economy and sustainable recovery for businesses and communities in all parts of the UK.”
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