The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has welcomed the appointment of the new Housing and Planning Minister, Gavin Barwell.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the organisation, said Minister Barwell has assumed the position at a "critical juncture" in the wake of the EU Referendum.

"We welcome the appointment of Gavin Barwell as the new Minister of State for Housing and Planning," he said.

"Brexit presents a challenge to the house building industry, and it will require bold leadership if the progress that has been made over the last few years isn't to be lost as a result of any sense of uncertainty within our sector. Momentum must be maintained."

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Mr Berry added the new Minister must build on the work left behind by his predecessor Brandon Lewis MP.

"Barwell's predecessor Brandon Lewis similarly understood the significance of reviving the SME house building sector if the Government is to achieve its housing targets, both by increasing volume and speeding up build out rates," he said.

"It's of vital importance that Barwell continues with the positive legacy Lewis left behind, which saw house building completion figures rise and a range of initiatives introduced aimed at empowering smaller developers."

(LM/MH)