The business secretary Alok Sharma has thanked the construction industry for its sterling efforts in supporting the national effort in tackling the coronavirus pandemic.

In a letter to the entire industry, Sharma said: “In these challenging times, I want to pay tribute to all those who are working tirelessly within the construction industry. Delivering on large or small construction sites across the country, in builders’ merchants and logistics providers, or producing construction and mineral products. 

Our country and our economy needs all our support. And the construction industry has answered the call to action. Whether by building temporary hospital wards, installing complex and life-saving oxygen systems, constructing the infrastructure that society needs to function or ensuring that people have safe and healthy homes to live in, you are delivering for our nation through this difficult time.”

Sharma said that he was aware that for many people working in construction their job requires them to travel to their place of work, and they can continue to do so. “This is consistent with the Chief Medical Officer’s advice. To help ensure that it is safe for you to operate in your workplace, the industry has worked to develop Site Operating Procedures (SOP), which were published by the Construction Leadership Council. These align with the latest guidance from Public Health England. As this health guidance updates, the SOP will reflect any changes,” said Sharma.

The business secretary said that he was in regular contact with industry leaders about the developing situation that faces the sector and he was fully committed to continuing to engage through the coming days, weeks and beyond. Sharma’s words will be a welcome boost to those working in construction in very difficult circumstances and are a recognition of the hugely valuable and critical contribution to the resilience of the nation currently being made by the industry.