SHOP FITTING COMPANIES

That this House welcomes the growth in refurbishment of shops, public houses and building societies, but notes that generally national chains use a select number of contractors who undertake the work across the UK rather than using locally-based companies; believes that such practices are inefficient and damaging to the environment and deny economically deprived areas of much needed employment; and calls upon the industry to review such practices and to invest more in local contractors and sources.