I was pleased to see that my letter to Graham Watts, chair of the construction umbrella bodies adjudication task group, received coverage in last Friday’s Building (6 October, page 63).

However, I would like to correct misunderstandings that seem to have arisen between Tony Bingham and the person who “slipped him” a copy of the letter.

First, the letter was not secret. The DTI is happy for it to be made publicly available and Graham has also kindly agreed that the letter will be added to the Construction Industry Council website at www.cic.org.uk/services/adjudication.shtml.

Second, although Mr Bingham says he has not heard of them, the proposals in the letter have been developed through a thorough process of consultation, which started with Sir Michael Latham’s review in 2004. My letter to Graham makes clear that it is seeking feedback on the proposals as part of a pre-consultative discussion with the CUB Group. This will be followed by a full public consultation on amendments to the payment and adjudication provisions of the Construction Act around the turn of the year.

Denis Walker, director, construction sector unit, DTI

Topics