25 March 2010

MPs and MSPs to face 'constructive questions'

MPs and MSPs will face a 'Question Time'-styled hustings themed around the construction industry at the University of Dundee tomorrow (Friday March 26th).

'Constructive Questions' has been organised by the Dundee Institute of Architects, who promote architecture across Tayside and North East Fife. The panel facing questions will include Jim McGovern MP (Labour), Stewart Hosie MP (SNP), Murdo Fraser MSP (Conservative) and John Barnett, the Lib Dem candidate for Dundee West. Also on the panel will be Clive Gillman, Director of Dundee Contemporary Arts.

Well known journalist Neil Mudie is chairing the event, which takes place in the Dalhousie Building at the University from 12.30 pm.

DIA says the construction industry represents some 15% of Scotland’s economy and it has been widely argued that development reaps nearly 5 times the initial investment via spin offs and that investment being re-circulated within the economy.

The findings of a survey of DIA members has highlighted that the economy appears to be stabilising, and that there is the first glimmers of optimism for a long time, but that is balanced by significant concerns regarding the availability of private investment and the desire of the banks to back such activity, and the extent to which red tape may block development. 60% of respondents also considered that there would be a reduction in construction tenders over the coming year.

The event is being supported by the Scottish Construction Centre and the Tayside Construction Forum. Professor Anne Anderson, Head of the College of Art, Science and Design at the University of Dundee, will welcome attendees to the University.

For media enquiries contact:
Roddy Isles
Head, Press Office
University of Dundee
Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384910
E-MAIL: r.isles@dundee.ac.uk
MOBILE: 07800 581902