§ 9. Mr. Ovendenasked the Secretary of State for Employment what action he is taking to improve training opportunities for employees able only to undertake part-time employment after training.
§ Mr. John GrantI am informed by the Manpower Services Commission that courses are available under the Training Opportunities Scheme to people able to undertake only part-time employment, provided there are reasonable prospects of employment following training.
§ Mr. OvendenIs my hon. Friend aware that in some areas the Training Services Agency is refusing courses to women because family circumstances do not allow them to work full-time after training? Will he make it clear to the agency that the Government are entirely opposed to that form of discrimination? If insufficient courses are available, we should be expanding the training system rather than placing the burden of its inadequacy on one section of the community.
§ Mr. GrantThe aim of the Training Opportunities Scheme is to provide adults over 19 with intensive training so that they can change careers or improve their existing qualifications and re-enter the employment sector after a lengthy absence. There is no exclusion for married women for example, who are available for part-time work only. However, opportunities for part-time work vary considerably from area to area. The Training Services Agency has to take a realistic view in a situation in which it 1507 is clear that local opportunities for part time work are minimal. If my hon. Friend has a particular case in mind, I think he will find that there is a helpful reply.
§ Mr. MartenAre there still vacancies in the Training Opportunities Scheme, or is the scheme full up already?