Construction SMEs are still facing challenges in avoiding late payment and accessing public procurement, according to the National Federation of Builders (NFB).

Despite making up 18% of all businesses in the UK private sector, NFB Chief Executive Richard Beresford said construction SMEs are still owed over £30 billion in unpaid invoices.

-- Advertisement --

In a manifesto commitment, the Government has pledged to spend £1 in every £3 on SMEs by 2020.

With the appointment of Emma Jones MBE as Small Business Crown Representative, the organisation said it was looking forward to continue the good working relationship which it enjoyed with her predecessor, Sir Stephen Allott.

Mr Beresford said: "We look forward to working together with Emma Jones on solutions to current issues concerning greater SME engagement and payment performance in public procurement."

(LM/MH)