A cross-party group of MPs is calling on the government to support small housebuilders to solve the UK's housing crisis.
The MPs yesterday (28 March) published a report, titled 'An Inquiry into Support for Small Housebuilders', which calls for government-backed guarantees on loans to small housebuilders, who are more reliant on financing than bigger builders with large reserves of cash.
They are also asking for action against businesses that pay their suppliers late, with a new 'three strikes and you're out' rule targeting big businesses who repeatedly pay late, and more help for apprenticeships in the building trade.
Catherine West MP, vice chairman of the inquiry, said: "The current state of the UK housing market leaves no doubt that there is huge potential for small builders to make a vital contribution to building the homes we need.
"The simple truth is that the UK cannot expect to build the homes we so desperately need unless smaller builders are backed.
"Giving small builders the keys they need could result in tens of thousands of urgently needed homes being built up and down the UK.
"This will help create jobs, stimulate economic growth and provide the homes the UK need."
Mike Cherry, national chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), said: "Small housebuilders will welcome the cross-party effort to shine a light on the very real challenges that are holding them back from playing their part in building the homes the UK needs."
