§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has to introduce a construction contracts Bill designed to improve relations between clients, contractors and subcontractors in the construction industry; and what alterations he has considered. [41016]
§ Mr. ClappisonThe Government's consultation paper "Fair Construction Contracts" set out our proposals for legislation to promote less adversarial contractual arrangements in construction projects with a view to bringing about more co-operative working relationships. We have published the results of the consultation exercise and are considering legislation in the light of these and subsequent discussions with the construction industry.
The Government are working with other members of the construction industry board on a range of initiatives to promote industry relationships based on teamwork.
§ Mr. CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his policy in respect of improving the relationship between clients, contractors 737W and subcontractors in the construction industry; and what assessment he has made the improvement in the value for money that would result from such a change. [41015]
§ Mr. ClappisonThe Government share the concern of the construction industry about the level of adversarialism in the industry. We support the view expressed in Sir Michael Latham's report "Constructing the Team" that a real improvement in relationships depends upon moving from a culture based on conflict to one of co-operation. We are actively supporting and encouraging such a culture change and are taking a strong lead, together with other members of the construction industry board, in implementing the Latham recommendations.
While the information available does not permit a precise calculation of the scope for improving value for money by reducing conflict, we follow Sir Michael and the industry consensus in believing that increased
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