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Builders (Licensing) Bill
19 November 2021
Lead MP
Mark Garnier
Debate Type
Bill Debate
Tags
Crime & Law EnforcementEmploymentAgriculture & Rural Affairs
Other Contributors: 7
At a Glance
Mark Garnier raised concerns about builders (licensing) bill in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The MP proposes the creation of a compulsory licensing scheme for small and medium-sized building firms involved in repair, maintenance, and improvement work. He argues that this is necessary due to rampant issues with rogue builders who defraud customers and provide substandard services, leading to significant economic losses. The proposal seeks to protect consumers, subcontractors, merchants, and reputable builders by introducing a regulatory framework similar to those for other regulated industries such as finance. Mark Garnier emphasises the need for self-financed licensing fees and clear rules regarding conduct, safety, and quality.
Oliver Heald
Lab
North East Cambridgeshire
Intervened to ask about the environmental consequences of poor building practices, particularly concerning rainwater drainage into sewers.
Anthony Mangnall
Con
Crewe and Nantwich
Agreed with Mark Garnier's points but questioned the necessity of creating an ombudsman, suggesting that improvements in civil litigation might be a better approach.
Gagan Mohindra
Con
South West Hertfordshire
Suggested that the current voluntary scheme is ineffective and questioned whether additional measures are needed.
Chi Onwurah
Lab
Newcastle upon Tyne Central
The hon. Member welcomed the Bill's intention but highlighted that the Government should have acted sooner, citing a specific case where rogue builders caused significant damage to a constituent’s home under the green homes scheme. She emphasised the importance of licensing services and funding for local authorities' trading standards to combat rogue traders effectively.
Lee Rowley
Con
Erewash
The hon. Member acknowledged the issue but expressed reservations about introducing a licensing scheme, arguing it might stifle industry dynamism and create guilds. He noted that the Government was working on other measures such as alternative disputes resolution schemes, TrustMark registration requirements for installers, competent persons schemes, and building safety regulations.
Christchurch
Welcomes the Government's proportionate response and highlights his long-standing involvement in addressing issues related to rogue builders. He emphasises the importance of consumers seeking reputable organisations such as the Federation of Master Builders for building work, suggesting that it may be more expensive but safer than dealing with unscrupulous contractors.
Mark Garnier
Con
Wyre Forest
Intervenes briefly to express urgency in proceeding with the debate, although his specific position and arguments are not detailed in this excerpt.
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Assessment & feedback
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