The UK construction industry has warned the sector is facing a 'cliff edge' unless the Government ensures access to EU workers post-Brexit.

Industry leaders have produced a 'Construction Industry Brexit Manifesto' outlining what they believe to be the sector's responsibilities and requirements in the labour market following the UK's departure from the EU.

The manifesto is supported by seven major construction trade bodies; Federation of Master Builders, Association for Consultancy & Engineering, Build UK, Civil Engineering Contractors Association, Construction Products Association, Home Builders Federation, and National Federation of Builders.

In order to deliver the Government's strategic objectives for new housing and infrastructure, industry leaders are looking for Ministers to;

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• Agree as a soon as possible a two-year period of transition during which time EU workers arriving in the UK should continue to have a path to settled status

• Basing the post-transitional migration system on key occupations that are in short supply, rather than on arbitrary thresholds based on skill levels or income.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders, said: "The construction industry has been criticised in the past for being too disparate but it has come together here with one voice and set of clear messages.

"We know we need to step up as an industry and train more home-grown talent but we also have to be realistic about the future. There will continue to be some ongoing need for migrant workers and our post-Brexit migration rules will need to be fit for purpose."

Suzannah Nichol MBE, Chief Executive of Build UK, said: "Construction, like other major industry sectors, has substantial concerns over the impact of Brexit on its ability to recruit, train and retain talent. It is essential that industry works together to present the need for an effective partnership between Government and industry, enabling us to deliver the UK's infrastructure, homes and communities."

To view the manifesto, visit here.

(LM)