A manager at the National Federation of Builders (NFB) is vying to become a member of parliament in today’s general election.
Sean Houlston, who manages membership services at the trade body, is standing for the Conservative Party in the newly-created constituency of Widnes and Halewood in Cheshire.
Houlston describes himself as a “staunch advocate for housebuilding and the construction sector” and has promised to represent the industry in parliament.
He said: “My experience in construction, education and business has equipped me with the skills to drive forward local projects, improve our education system, and secure vital investments.”
His policy platform focuses on widening digital infrastructure, tackling crime through localised policing and improving local education, putting skills and employability at the centre.
Houlston’s line manager James Butcher, NFB’s director of strategy and operations, called him “professional, motivated, caring and articulate” and wished him luck on behalf of the NFB.
He said: “Sean has led a programme of transformation since he joined the company and has proven his skills at leading teams and change, something I imagine the green benches in parliament would truly benefit from.”
The NFB has not endorsed any political party but launched a manifesto shortly after the election announcement with recommendations for the next government. It called for retentions to be abolished, a confidential procurement reporting portal and a national retrofit planning framework.
Houlston is not the only construction candidate on the ballot. Mace director Mike Reader is hoping to overturn the Conservative majority in Northampton South, and Labour MP Tan Dhesi, who is defending his Slough seat, directed two construction companies before starting his political career.
