The SBF is one of 14 prescribed organisations across the UK consulted by CITB on its Levy proposals, with all Levy-paying SBF members allowed to vote on the way forward. The Federation’s role is to present the proposals to its Levy-paying members and seek their views on them.

In the recent ballot, which took place between March and May, two-thirds (67%) of SBF members agreed that the Levy proposals for 2026-2029 are necessary to encourage adequate training in the industry for the next three years.

The proposal was to retain PAYE Levy rates at 0.35%, net paid (taxable) CIS sub-contractors at 1.25% and to increase the Levy exemption and reduction thresholds to £150,000 and £500,000.

Commenting on the vote, SBF operations director Paul Mitchell said: “We welcome the clear outcome from our CITB consensus vote with support shown by the majority of our members for the Levy proposals. This reflects a recognition of the vital role the Levy plays in underpinning training, apprenticeships and skills development within the Scottish construction sector.

“However, while the majority voted in favour, it is important to note that a third of our members expressed reservations and voted against the levy proposals: up from 26% from the 2021 CITB consensus process. 

“Feedback highlighted ongoing issues relating to craft apprenticeship qualifications, apprenticeship delivery models and - for our larger members - concerns around cost-effectiveness and value for money.

“We will be actively engaging with CITB to discuss these matters in detail and ensure that the needs of our members are fully considered moving forward.”

CITB is expected to formally announce the overall result of the consensus process to industry next week.