Investment in infrastructure alone is not enough, warns Federation.

"A beige budget from Brown," is how Julia Evans, chief executive of the National Federation of Builders described yesterday's announcement from the Chancellor, saying that the only features of note were those that promoted economic stability and growth.

Evans said that while the NFB appreciated the continued and increasing investment in the country's infrastructure, it was essential that the government delivered on its promises to save on waste and inefficiency.

"Concerns remain over the limited progress made in this area and the Federation looks forward to seeing whether the Chancellor can save the £6 billion as outlined to him by Gershon and one hopes that the Government's procurement practice matures in parallel with the advances made by the industry," Evans said.

"We await further details on PFI, planning gain supplement and skills and training."