HC Deb 05 February 1985 vol 72 cc740-1
12. Dr. McDonald

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what consultations he has had with the Manpower Services Commission about the future of skillcentres.

Mr. Peter Morrison

The chairman wrote to my right hon. Friend on 24 January with a full report of the commission's views.

Dr. McDonald

In view of the grave disquiet over the plans to close 29 skillcentres and over growing skill shortages, and as fears have been expressed that this will lead to a decline in the skillcentre training agency, will the Minister urgently arrange for a debate on the matter in the House? Will he further arrange for a stop to be put to the disgraceful plans of the Manpower Services Commission?

Mr. Morrison

I am sure that my right hon. Friend the Leader of the House has heard what the hon. Lady has said about a debate. She will no doubt agree that money voted by the House should go on training rather than on bricks and mortar and on supervisors who do not have anybody to train.