The HBF is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales.

BBC: Builders at work on a house in Kent

"We do, though, need to ensure a level playing field across the whole market, " said Stewart Baseley, of the HBF.

BBC: Budget 2013: Chancellor extends home-buying schemes

The Home Builders Federation (HBF) said approval was given for 5, 478 Scottish homes in the first half of the year.

BBC: Slump in planning approvals for new Scottish homes

The Home Builders Federation (HBF) said lenders would need to come on board, but suggested sales should rise as a result.

BBC: Budget 2013: Chancellor extends home-buying schemes

Planning permission was granted for 33, 881 homes across England in July to September, according to figures from the Home Builders Federation (HBF).

BBC: Builders at work on a house in Kent

However, the HBF said the latest figure was still less than the 60, 000 approvals it says are needed each quarter to meet demand.

BBC: Builders at work on a house in Kent

NewBuy is backed by the Home Builders' Federation (HBF) and the Council of Mortgage Lenders and seven construction firms - Barratt, Bellway, Bovis, Linden Homes.

BBC: Mortgage scheme offers buyers help up the property ladder

According to HBF, the figure now stands at just 9%.

BBC: Slump in planning approvals for new Scottish homes

Steve Turner of the Home Builders Federation (HBF) says the downturn in sales has severely depressed demand for new home building, with house builders cutting back their activities considerably.

BBC: When will the long slump in house sales end?