BUILDERS in Oxfordshire are backing a Government drive to drive out rogue traders.

A working party is looking into producing an industry wide quality badge or kitemark, together with a listing of reputable builders.

The National Federation of Builders is backing the move, but wants to make sure the working group sets high standards.

Tony Munsey, senior vice president of the Oxfordshire association, said: "We have been calling for measures to drive rogue traders out of the industry for many years and are keen to support the Government initiative.

"However the federation's main concern is to ensure that consumers are fully protected by such a kitemark and that it will set high standards and enable delivery of high-quality building works in a realistic timescale."

The federation said it accepted the kitemark must be broad based to encompass a wide range of skills practised in the industry.

But Mr Munsey added: "We must be vigilant to ensure that this does not lead to a dilution at the expense of quality. If that happens then the kitemark will be devalued, the consumer will quickly lose confidence and the rogue trader will remain."

The federation has already introduced its own five-point plan to protect consumers.

It includes a code of practice, tougher membership criteria, a fair deal contract, a conciliation and arbitration scheme and a ten-year guarantee scheme.

Mr Munsey said any move to improve the industry's image and standards relied on gaining consumer confidence.

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