Construction industry activity accelerated during June, according to the purchasing managers’ index compiled by data company Markit and the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply.

The index showed a reading of 51, above the level of 50 which separates expansion from contraction.

The government has launched 'Construction 2025', which is a plan to halve building costs by a third and reduce building times by half. Among the aims of the plan are to improve the construction industry's image and payment practices.