WRITTEN contracts for building work are the best option for consumers wanting to protect themselves from unscrupulous tradesmen, says the Federation of Master Builders.

The FMB was commenting in response to the publication of the Draft Consumer Rights Bill, which seeks to protect people from rogue traders by suggesting customers record verbal agreements with tradespeople on their mobiles.

Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB, said: "The Government is right to want to increase protection for consumers against rogue traders and to ensure they are better informed about their rights.”