Queen’s Speech to Parliament today set out the government’s legislative programme for the next two years. The Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) has welcomed the government's plans on housing and industrial policy.

Despite the speech having an inevitable focus around Brexit, there was also talk about current housing and industrial policy, which will both aim to help grow the economy, improve living standards and increase productivity.

John Newcomb, managing director of the BMF, said: "We welcome the clear statement in the Queen's Speech that proposals will be brought forward to help ensure more homes are built. The Government has acknowledged that not enough homes are being built and that we need to build more of the right homes in the right places, and diversify who builds homes.

"It is possible that the Housing White Paper does not now require further legislation and the BMF does urge the government to implement it as fast as possible."

The BMF also welcomed the government's commitment to implementing the Industrial Strategy and the new Trade and Customs Bills, which will enable members to trade confidently and continue with their planned investments.

Mr Newcomb added: "The BMF favours an Industrial Strategy that showcases the construction industry, based on a clearly-defined, well-articulated mission to give it purpose, drive and direction. A resilient, functioning and enduring supply chain must be a core component if the Strategy is to succeed.”