A poll of members resulted in a three to one vote in favour of allowing the CITB to keep its levy raising powers.

Chief executive Alasdair Reisner said: “Our members know that ensuring we have the right people with the right skills remains one of the major challenges for industry.

“This may explain the strength of the vote for the Levy to be retained, allowing CITB to continue to co-ordinate training activity across the sector.

“But many members have asked us to make it clear that this should be seen as a ‘yes, but…’ rather than a straight endorsement.

“In recent months CITB has taken steps to cut bureaucracy from the organisation, improve communications and build better governance.

“Members want this process to continue at an increased pace, ensuring that CITB is fit for purpose in the years to come.”

CECA has been awarded £1.6m in funding by the CITB this year.