The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has stated the Scottish Government has 'shamed' Westminster on energy efficiency.

The FMB has welcomed the Scottish Governments announcement that improving the energy efficiency of buildings in Scotland will be designated a national infrastructure priority.

Gordon Nelson, Services Director of FMB Scotland, said: "The Scottish Government has quite rightly prioritised our existing buildings because it recognises that in doing so, it will meet a number of its economic, social and environmental objectives.

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"The next hurdle will be to encourage the UK government to increase its ambition for energy efficiency. The UK has a legally binding target to reduce the country’s carbon emissions by 80% by 2050.

"This will simply not be achieved unless we dramatically reduce the carbon emissions emitted by our existing buildings, which are responsible for 27% of the UK’s total carbon emissions."

Mr Nelson stated that investing in our current homes is 'essential' at a time when the UK is facing a national housing crisis.

He added: "We are thrilled that Aileen McLeod has taken steps to prioritise this fundamental issue.  Not only will this policy boost jobs and growth in Scotland, it will help home owners reduce their energy bills and help lift families and individuals out of fuel poverty."

(LM)