The UK government's "Brexit bill" passed through the House of Commons last week without any amendments, paving the way for Theresa May to start the negotiations on the UK's withdrawal from the European Union.  Although the bill passed with a convincing majority, the construction industry is far from reassured that its interests will be defended by the government, as May has already identified financial services and the automotive industry as those for which it will seek preferential deals. Nevertheless, the recent Brexit White Paper raises the issue of the shortage of workers for key industries and promises to take steps to ensure that the supply of workers does not simply dry up.  Even with this unspecific commitment, of particular concern to the construction industry is the absolute refusal of the government to unilaterally guarantee the acquired rights of EU nationals already living and working in the UK. Although an amendment was tabled to protect these citizens, it was defeated.  The bill now goes to the House of Lords, where it is hoped that the amendment might have more success.  The supply of workers is not the only issue over which there is considerable uncertainty for construction, now that it is clear that the UK is expected to leave the single market.  Amongst other things, standardisation and the CE marking of construction products are also up in the air.