Calls to Scrap CITB from Construction Firms

Recent survey results reveal that nearly 75% of over a thousand construction firms advocate for the scrapping of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and its associated training levy. This research, commissioned by Hudson Contract, highlights a growing sentiment within the industry that the current system is inadequate.

_{Survey Findings}

The survey results come at a pivotal moment, as the CITB’s levy-raising powers are set to expire. Later this year, the CITB will need to seek industry consensus to continue charging the levy. Hudson Contract's findings suggest that the majority of firms believe the CITB's functions should be absorbed by the new Skills England body.

_{Industry Perspectives}

• Unified Approach: The construction industry, along with sectors like manufacturing, care, the armed forces, and education, faces widespread skills shortages. Many firms argue that having separate levies and skills bodies is inefficient. They advocate for a more integrated approach to linking school leavers and colleges with employers across all industries.
• Skills England Integration: Hudson Contract supports the idea of incorporating the CITB’s responsibilities into Skills England. This move aligns with the government’s plans for a unified skills training system, which aims to streamline training processes and address skill gaps more effectively.

_{Implications for the Future}

If the CITB’s levy-raising powers are not renewed, and if it is integrated into Skills England, the construction sector will see significant changes. This potential shift underscores a broader call for a cohesive strategy to tackle skills shortages across various sectors and improve the overall efficiency of the training system.

The call to scrap the CITB highlights a critical moment for the construction industry and broader skills training framework. As discussions continue, stakeholders will need to navigate the implications of these proposed changes and their impact on future training and development.