However, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has raised concerns about the viability of a long-term plan that does not include construction as one of its eight 'growth driving sectors'.

Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB, commented: “It is deeply concerning that the Chancellor and Business Secretary have published an Industrial Strategy for the new Government but have not felt it necessary to include reference to the construction sector as an industry for growth, during a period where the UK is experiencing both a housing and skills crisis that is holding back and economic resurgence and threaten long-term market confidence.”

He argues that, given the focus on rebuilding Britain, those who will do the physical work have been forgotten.

While the Government is focussing on inviting big innovative investments, it should not forget the fundamentals of what drives growth.

The consultation is an opportunity to ensure that construction isn't a sideshow subsector in the plan. Construction must be front and centre of the government's drive for economic growth.

Berry concluded: “The Government has made several promising announcements in recent weeks with proposals for significant planning reforms, an ambitious house building target of 1.5 million new homes, and the establishment of Skills England all welcome.”

However, FMB believes that questions remain about the viability of these plans without serious investment in tackling the root causes.

The new Industrial Strategy raises concerns about how integral the industry is to the UK economy. Ministers see the sector, which should sit alongside services and manufacturing, as a critical pillar of economic growth.