SEC Group Wales represents the largest sector, by value, in Welsh construction. Speaking on behalf of the Group, its chairman, Peter Davies, stated: “SEC Group Wales has been the leading exponent of PBAs, since they are the most effective method for ensuring regular and secure payments to construction supply chains, especially SMEs.”

Cat Griffith Williams, national executive officer for SEC Group Wales, added: “Poor payment practices are the biggest killer of productivity and growth in Welsh construction. PBAs will help curb abuse and thus enable small firms to deliver to their full potential.”

These comments were echoed by Michelle Davies from the ECA: “Welsh Government is to be congratulated. Dealing with poor payment practices has to be the number one priority for construction. I look forward to the time when we can halve the threshold for using PBAs.”

Professor Rudi Klein, chief executive of UK SEC Group, also praised the Welsh Government: “Wales now joins Northern Ireland, Scotland and the UK Government in using PBAs in public sector construction. Evidence is now emerging that as well as protecting SMEs from abuse, they are also helping to reduce the cost of construction.”

SEC Group Wales intends to work with the Welsh Government in helping to train the industry and public sector bodies in the use of PBAs. The Group has already published guidance for clients, 12 Easy Steps in Setting up a Project Bank Account.

It is understood that the bulk of public sector construction in Wales will be paid for through PBAs.