The National Federation of Builders (NFB) has welcomed the changes approved by Parliament to the CITB-ConstructionSkills’ Levy Order.

MPs voted unanimously in favour of keeping the construction levy for a further three years. They also approved a number of industry-led revisions to the skills body’s statutory funding system including reductions to levy payments for some small businesses and changes to make the application of the levy more closely aligned to industry’s wishes. The introduction of a Small Business Levy Reduction means that employers whose salary bill (for staff and payments to labour-only sub-contractors) is between £80-100k will receive a 50% reduction on their levy payments.

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Julia Evans, Chief Executive of the NFB said: "This is great news for our many small business members who will find this levy reduction more equitable at a time when resources and orders are stretched. We are pleased that MPs have shown an understanding of the important role of skills and training while firms continue to survive in a difficult economic climate. Access to grants and training is imperative for the industry to retain the skills required to help it to defend its role as a major contributor to economic growth in the UK. We welcome the continued support and contribution from CITB-ConstructionSkills to keep the industry buoyant and weather the storm at this challenging time."

(CD/GK)