Just over a year has passed since the Labour government took office, marking a significant shift in the UK’s political landscape.
While RICS remains firmly committed to political neutrality, the change in leadership required us to act swiftly and strategically to build relationships with newly elected MPs and appointed ministers.
I’m proud to report that our efforts have paid off, maintaining our position as a trusted voice in shaping the future of the built and natural environment.
As we move through 2025 – a year that is fast becoming one of the most parliamentarily interactive in the Organisation’s recent history – and with party conference season approaching, it seems timely to reflect on the progress we’ve made and the impact we’re having.
One of the most significant indicators of our growing influence is the increased presence of RICS experts appearing before peers and MPs in parliament. So far in 2025, RICS professionals have given evidence 10 times in the UK Parliament (up from just twice in 2024). These sessions covered a wide range of topics on the minds of members.
In the last few months, Faraz Baber FRICS MRTPI represented RICS during the Planning and Infrastructure Bill committee session, advocating for streamlined planning processes that still uphold environmental and community safeguards – key to unlocking 1.5m new homes.
Jeremy Aston FRICS contributed to the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee’s inquiry into land value capture, where he championed standardised Section 106 agreements and better data infrastructure.
Charlotte Neal MRICS, RICS director of professional practice and research, gave expert evidence to the House of Lords Built Environment Committee on the delivery of new towns. She stressed the need for long-term investment models, strategic alignment, and public-private collaboration to create thriving, resilient communities.
RICS also engaged with the government on a range of other critical policy areas. Professor Richard Fitton FRICS addressed the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee on the role of surveyors in retrofitting and smart meter deployment. And Gary Strong FRICS, RICS global building standards director, gave parliamentary evidence on reforms to the building safety regulator to support housing delivery without compromising safety.
Bridging the skills gap
Skills development remains a pressing issue, and in June, RICS participated in a roundtable discussion with Lauren Edwards MP. The conversation focused on the skills gap in the built environment and construction industries, exploring public perceptions, apprenticeship pathways, and early access routes. We’re committed to identifying and promoting solutions that will help bridge this gap and ensure a robust pipeline of future professionals.
In the same month, RICS CEO Justin Young responded to the UK government’s spending review. He advocated for a joined-up approach to infrastructure investment and emphasised the need to integrate housing, transport, energy, and digital infrastructure to ensure that decisions are future-proof and centred around community needs. This holistic perspective is essential to delivering sustainable growth and resilience.
In Scotland, the Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes MSP, delivered a keynote address at our annual Scotland conference, reaffirming the Scottish government’s commitment to working with RICS to accelerate progress on net zero, building safety, and infrastructure investment. A commitment that is testament to the value of our expertise and the trust governments place in our Organisation.
In July, we welcomed the Fabian Society – a prominent think tank – to our headquarters for their housing summit. The event featured an address by Matthew Pennycook MP, Minister of State for Housing and Planning, who acknowledged the critical role of the surveying profession in addressing the housing crisis. His comments reflect the growing recognition of RICS as a key contributor to policy development and implementation.
As the major political parties prepare for their annual conferences, many of which RICS will be attending, I am confident that we will continue to build on this momentum. Our reputation as a trusted advisor to governments in the UK and around the world is stronger than ever. Through evidence-based advocacy, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to professional excellence, RICS is helping to shape a sustainable future for the built and natural environment.
Thank you to all our members and staff who have contributed to this important work. Your expertise and dedication are the foundation of our success. I look forward to continuing this journey together as we navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead.
“RICS is helping to shape a sustainable future for the built and natural environment” Nick Maclean FRICS, Acting President of RICS
