Local MP Phil Brickell backs fairer procurement and stronger UK steel sector

​​​​​​​Key issues the sector is facing include cash retentions and the need to improve payment practices across the construction supply chain

Phil Brickell, Member of Parliament for Bolton West, recently visited Lancashire-based BD Structures, a steelwork contractor, to understand the broader challenges facing the UK’s steel construction industry.

During his visit, key issues included cash retentions in the sector and the need to improve payment practices across the construction supply chain.

The BD Structures team also highlighted the burden of inconsistent procurement models for public contracts, a challenge many in the British Construction Steelwork sector echoed.

BD Structures, a British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) member, recently joined 35 fellow members in signing an open letter to the government supporting the BCSA’s “New Deal for Steel.”

During his visit, Mr Brickell voiced his support for the initiative, particularly its call for a comprehensive review of how public infrastructure contracts are awarded.