<p><span>The housing secretary Robert Jenrick has thanked the Home Builders Federation and housebuilding industry for its work during the coronavirus pandemic.</span><span></span></p> <p><span>Speaking at HBF’s Coronavirus Webinar this week, Jenrick noted that in the country’s post-war recovery, housebuilders had played a key part “and are at the front again”.</span><span></span></p> <p><span>He reminded delegates of the “most difficult decisions” the government took to ensure the nation’s safety, including forcing people to put moves on hold. “The industry was put into suspended animation.”</span><span></span></p> <p><span>But since then: “With the steps I’ve taken to allow more flexible working hours and bringing the planning system into the digital age, those measures will help the industry get moving again.”</span><span></span></p> <p><span>The housing minister praised HBF in helping to reopen the market and its instrumental role in launching the Charter for Safe Working Practice – Covid 19.</span><span></span></p> <p><span>He also noted housebuilding’s critical part in reviving the economy, expressing the government’s continuing commitment to the industry, and his praise for it. </span><span></span></p> <p><span>“The prospects of the housing market are inextricably linked to the macro economy. Your success is our success. We’ll continue to support you to deliver more, safer, greener and more beautiful homes.</span><span></span></p> <p><span>“Thank you for everything you’re doing to …