It was one of Kwarteng’s first moves after being appointed in his new role.

The letter states: “As the new Business Secretary, I would like to take this opportunity to restate the Government position, which is that firms and tradespeople in the construction sector and its supply chain, including merchants, suppliers and product manufacturers, should continue to operate during this national lockdown.

“I would also like to make it clear that where it is essential to travel or to stay in accommodation, whether to get to your work or for the purposes of carrying out your work, those in the industry are able to do so.

“It is vital that construction continues through these unsettling times and I want to reassure you that the Government values the crucial contribution your sector is making.

“Whether delivering on large or small construction sites, and in peoples’ homes across the country, in builders’ merchants, designing and project managing schemes or producing construction and mineral products, you are making a major contribution to the economic recovery following Covid-19.

“Thank you again to everyone operating in the UK construction sector. You are making a hugely valued and critical contribution to our country.”