The election of new select committee chairs has been welcomed by the civil engineering industry, highlighting their crucial role in scrutinising government activities.
- Ruth Cadbury’s election to the Transport Select Committee Chair emphasises her commitment to tackling transport issues affecting rail, road, and cycling infrastructure.
- Bill Esterson prioritises the Energy Security and Net Zero agenda, focusing on decarbonisation, grid capacity, and the just transition for energy industries.
- The civil engineering sector anticipates beneficial collaborations with the new committee chairs, noting their expertise in construction and built environment matters.
- Industry leaders express optimism about the select committees’ potential to drive improvements and hold the government accountable for infrastructure policies.
The appointment of new chairs for select committees has been positively received by the civil engineering and construction sectors. These committees perform essential functions in parliament, holding central government and various public and private bodies accountable. They not only question ministers but also invite external experts, including industry representatives, academics, and campaigners, to contribute to their inquiries. This structure allows committees to investigate issues deemed crucial by their members.
Ruth Cadbury has been elected as the chair of the Transport Select Committee after receiving 828 of 554 votes, surpassing fellow Labour MPs Catherine Atkinson, Fabian Hamilton, and Grahame Morris. Cadbury’s campaign focused on addressing delays and overcrowding in rail transport, the costs associated with car ownership, and the lack of safe cycling and walking infrastructure. She articulated a strong desire to keep transportation issues prominent in the parliamentary agenda.
Bill Esterson, taking the helm of the Energy Security and Net Zero Select Committee, emphasised his dedication to scrutinising GB Energy’s role in achieving decarbonisation goals. He highlighted three priorities: securing investment through partnerships with private investors, enhancing grid capacity and connections, and ensuring a just transition for the oil, gas, and energy-intensive industries. Esterson underlined the importance of energy independence and national security alongside economic benefits for constituents.
The industry leaders, such as those from the Civil Engineering Contractors Association and the Construction Industry Council, have shown enthusiasm for the elected chairs. They appreciate the selection of MPs who possess a solid understanding of construction, planning, and architectural matters, viewing this knowledge as key to advancing the nation’s infrastructure goals. Collaboration and cross-sectoral knowledge sharing have been pinpointed as critical factors for success.
The Railway Industry Association and other transport-related entities expressed their support for Cadbury’s focus on multi-modal transportation and her advocacy for issues like women’s safety and environmental sustainability in public transport. The anticipation of her leadership in refining government policy and implementing rail reforms stands out as a hopeful prospect.
The election of knowledgeable chairs to key select committees is expected to enhance parliamentary oversight and foster infrastructure advancement.
