HC Deb 17 October 1994 vol 248 cc19-20W
Mr. Spellar

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on his Department's response to the report, "Constructing the Team", by Sir Michael Latham.

Mr. Robert B. Jones

In common with the whole of the construction industry, the Government have given a warm welcome to the trust of Sir Michael Latham's report. We have invited Sir Michael to lead the initial implementation phase and provided administrative and other resources to ensure that momentum can be maintained. We are participating fully with industry and client groups to develop detailed responses to the report's recommendations. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has approved an interdepartmental scrutiny of Government's procurement of construction in response to Sir Michael's recommendation that the Government should commit themselves to being a best practice client.

Mr. Spellar

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has for legislation to govern construction contracts.

Mr. Robert B. Jones

We shall now be examining with industry and client groups Sir Michael Latham's particular proposals. We have made it clear that we are prepared in principle to legislate on these matters subject to agreement on the need and form of such legislation.

Mr. Spellar

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what policies his Department has for encouraging progress in the construction industry for operatives and companies from ethnic minorities.

Mr. Robert B. Jones

Sir Michael Latham's report, "Constructing the Team", recommended that equal opportunities in the industry should be vigorously pursued. A joint task force is being established to progress this recommendation. My Department will take an active part.