Introduction -- General -- Labour, capacity and workload planning -- Price and margin analysis -- Procurement, payment and contract abuse

Presents the results of the state of the trade survey of the second quarter of 2008. Reports that the amount of specialist contractors reporting working at more than 75% of activity fell slightly to 76% of respondents. There is difficulty in skilled labour recruitment. This balance shows a negative level for the first time in the last 11 years (-14%). Shows a sharp fall in the balances for enquiries and orders. They are now at 33% and 32% respectively. 88% of specialist contractors report increase in suppliers' prices. Suggests that those reporting increase of tender prices fell to 0%. 59% expect margins to reduce. Late payment has the most important effects on specialist contractors' business.