MSP Stewart Stevenson has called for support for better regulation of the electrical trade across Scotland by making sure that anyone calling themselves an electrician is actually qualified to carry out the work. It has been estimated that as many as 16% of all domestic electricians operating in Scotland are either unqualified or under-qualified.
The representative for Banffshire and Buchan Coast has given his backing to the long-running campaign led by trade association Select for the recognition of electricians as a profession. The SNP member joins MPs and MSPs from the Liberal Democrats, Conservatives, the Greens and his own party on Select’s Wall of Support.
“I am delighted to add my support to Select’s campaign urging for the regulation of all electricians in Scotland,” said Stewart. “It is important for both safety and professionalism that we ensure anyone calling themselves an electrician holds appropriate qualifications. Introducing a title of recognition will create greater trust between consumers and industry and should be standard practice in all types of construction work, be they multi-million-pound contracts or small domestic jobs.”
Mr Stevenson’s endorsement comes amid a growing swell of support for the campaign. As part of its 2019-20 Programme for Government released last month, the Scottish Government has pledged to publish a consultation on the regulation of electricians.
“We would like to thank Mr Stevenson for adding his support to this vital cause,” said Alan Wilson, Managing Director of Select. “Improving the regulation of electricians will not only better help to protect people’s lives, but also has huge benefits for the wider Scottish economy. We are also delighted that the Scottish Government has committed to examining this issue, but continue to urge prompt action – this needs to happen sooner rather than later.”
Others who have contributed a brick to the ‘Wall of Support’ include the Scottish Joint Industry Board, Unite the Union, Electrical Safety First, The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL), the Specialist Engineering Contractors’ Group (SEC) and the Energy Saving Trust.
