Attracting more young people into the sector is top of the agenda for Arthur McArdle, the new National President of the Federation of Master Builders.

He was elected on 8 September at the FMB’s National AGM and Conference in Bournemouth.

McArdle said he is “passionate” about solving the skills shortage to help “build the nation out of the housing crisis”.

He believes the best way to do this is by attracting young people into the sector and training them to a high standard.

He said: “The construction industry is an extremely rewarding sector to work in and it should be viewed as such. I want construction to be a career of choice for young people.

“Although the FMB has spearheaded steps to make apprenticeships more attractive to young people, including playing a pivotal role in the sign off of two high quality apprenticeships in bricklaying and plastering in June this year, we still have further to go.

“The FMB is committed to working with the Government to improve the quality and quantity of apprenticeships.”