In an open letter to the construction industry, Alok Sharma, Secretary of State for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, has paid tribute to all those who are “working tirelessly” in the face of new rules imposed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Acknowledging how challenging the current situation is, the minister said everyone involved in the industry – on large or small construction sites across the country, in builders’ merchants and logistics providers, or producing construction and mineral products – deserved the Government’s gratitude.
“Our country and our economy needs all our support,” he continues. “And the construction industry has answered the call to action.
“Whether by building temporary hospital wards, installing complex and life-saving oxygen systems, constructing the infrastructure that society needs to function or ensuring that people have safe and healthy homes to live in, you are delivering for our Nation through this difficult time.
“My heartfelt and personal thanks for everything that each and every one of you is doing to support our joint national effort.
“The Government has advised that wherever possible, people should work at home. However, we know that for many people working in construction their job requires them to travel to their place of work, and they can continue to do so. This is consistent with the Chief Medical Officer’s advice.
“To help ensure that it is safe for you to operate in your workplace, the industry has worked to develop Site Operating Procedures (SOP), which were published by the Construction Leadership Council. These align with the latest guidance from Public Health England.
“As this health guidance updates, the SOP will reflect any changes. I am in regular contact with industry leaders about the developing situation that faces the sector.
“And I am fully committed to continuing to engage through the coming days, weeks and beyond. Thank you again to everyone operating in the UK construction sector.
“You are making a hugely valued and critical contribution to the resilience of our Nation and I salute you for the enormous efforts you are individually undertaking to support the UK economy.”
