Two leading voices representing the Scottish construction industry joined forces yesterday (23rd Nov) to demonstrate a joint commitment to work together to promote Scotland's strategically important building sector.

Scottish Building Federation Chief Executive Michael Levack was joined by Federation President Jamie Pert, who signed a Memo of Understanding with Ken Morrison, Chair of Chartered Institute of Building Scotland at McDiarmid Park, Perth.

The memo, which will be adhered to for four years insists:

1. CIOB Scotland and Scottish Building Federation agree to work in partnership to promote the interests of the Scottish Construction Industry and their respective members wherever possible.

2. CIOB Scotland and Scottish Building Federation will liaise and co-promote CPD, Social Activities and events at an Area/Centre and National levels.


3. CIOB Scotland and Scottish Building Federation will combine, where possible, to lobby and inform the Scottish and Westminster Governments on the main issues which affect the Scottish Construction Industry and in turn their respective memberships.

4. CIOB Scotland and Scottish Building Federation will maintain their individual identity and neither party will be authorised to commit or represent the other party without receiving clear and unambiguous instructions confirmed in writing.

Jamie Pert, President of the Scottish Building Federation, said: "Now, more than ever, bodies representing the Scottish construction industry need to work together to ensure continued support and understanding for the sector.

“This memo of understanding demonstrates a concrete commitment by two of the leading organizations representing the industry in Scotland to cooperate on issues of common interest and ensure everything possible is being done to protect construction industry interests and to retain jobs, skills and capacity."

Ken Morrison, Chair of the Chartered Institute of Building Scotland, said: "In order for the Scottish construction industry to help influence key decision makers of public and private enterprise requires significant trade bodies to join together.

“As the CIOB and Scottish Building Federation are voices for the sector, our partnership will reflect the strength and resilience of industry professionals, and in turn means we have a greater chance of representing the Scottish construction industry by being able to reach out to a wider audience."

(GK)