Industry renews plea for end to hung Parliament

Talks are continuing today between the leaders of the main parties in a bid to form a workable government from Thursday’s hung Parliament.

But senior figures in the construction industry have demanded an urgent resolution to help the industry recover from the recession.

Tom Foulkes, director general of the Institution of Civil Engineers, said: “There must be a swift resolution to the hung parliament negotiations.

“There are some important decisions and speedy actions required that are central to our industry and the economy – but such decisions depend on the formation of a government that has a strong focus and is clear on its direction.”

UK Contractors Group director Stephen Ratcliffe said: “The great worry is how long it will take before we can see a way forward.

“We have had the purdah period, and now these negotiations, so there is no clear picture and that is frustrating.”

Keith Chanter, chief executive of Emcor UK, added: “It is imperative that the parties work together to deliver on their promise to secure the economic recovery both our customers and the country needs – recovery which needs to bring about renewed confidence to industry, creating the right environment for a resurgence in activity.”