Story perspectives

Iran Conflict Spurs Brick Costs, Delays Labour Housing Target

5/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Iran conflict has raised energy prices, increasing brick costs and pushing Labour’s 1.5 million-home target behind schedule.
GMB leaders Gary Smith and Charlotte Brumpton-Childs have called on the government to extend energy-bill subsidies to brick manufacturers.
A government spokesperson said the £39 billion housing investment and industrial-strategy measures will help developers cope with geopolitical pressure.
Official data show 342,100 additional homes were delivered in England between 9 July 2024 and 15 March 2026.

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Story summary

The Iran conflict has raised energy prices, increasing brick costs and pushing Labour’s 1.5 million-home target behind schedule.
GMB leaders Gary Smith and Charlotte Brumpton-Childs have called on the government to extend energy-bill subsidies to brick manufacturers.
A government spokesperson said the £39 billion housing investment and industrial-strategy measures will help developers cope with geopolitical pressure.
Official data show 342,100 additional homes were delivered in England between 9 July 2024 and 15 March 2026.