HC Deb 24 January 2002 vol 378 cc1063-4W
Mr. Maples

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she supports the aims of the British Association of Landscape Industries to get their registration of landscape operatives affiliated to the Construction Industry Certification Scheme. [28012]

Mr. Wilson

[holding answer 18 January 2002]: The question of possible affiliation between the two schemes is one for the Board of the Construction Skills Certification Scheme Ltd. to consider, together with managers of the British Association of Landscape Industries' scheme.

However, given my ministerial responsibility for construction, I do welcome all efforts aimed at achieving greater collaboration in the industry with a view to improving standards of health and safety, and training standards generally. I am also keen that, wherever possible, the industry improves its working practices to allow greater flexibility for those that move between different sectors in the industry.

I understand that discussions are taking place between the Chairman of CSCS Ltd., Anthony W. Merricks CBE, and the Vice Chair of BALI, David Spencer. If a satisfactory solution can be reached, and I understand that discussions are proceeding in a positive way, this would be welcomed.