Civils contractors today welcomed steps the Chancellor of the Exchequer has taken to protect jobs as the furlough scheme winds down this autumn.
Commenting, Chief Executive of the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) Alasdair Reisner said: “The Chancellor’s Summer Statement contained important initiatives to protect jobs as the furlough scheme comes to an end.
“We strongly welcome steps taken to support trainees and apprenticeships, which are the lifeblood of our industry.
“The infrastructure sector faces a potential challenge as it is expected to come up to speed at the same time the furlough is removed.
“The Chancellor’s decision to support businesses who retain or hire previously furloughed employees will be vital to boosting the economy and preventing job losses as far as is practicable.
“However, it is unclear how this move will not penalise companies that didn’t furlough employees, which include many of our members, who under Government guidance returned to work as soon as suitable safety measures had been implemented.
“It is nonetheless gratifying that the Chancellor made special mention of the £39 billion the construction industry brings to the economy.
“As we look towards the post-pandemic world, we look forward to working with Government to streamline project delivery, unlock investment, and ensure our members can deliver the economic growth necessary to secure the UK’s recovery.”
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