§ 10. Mr. Simon CoombsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what was the level of expenditure on training in Northern Ireland in 1978–79; what is the figure for the current financial year; and what is the percentage increase in real terms.
§ Mr. HanleyPublic expenditure on training was £23.4 million in 1978–79 and £90 million in the current financial year, an increase in real terms of 45 per cent. There is also substantial private investment by employers in training for their staff which the Government encourage through the manpower training scheme.
§ Mr. CoombsDoes my hon. Friend agree that the people of Ulster can only benefit in future from a more highly skilled work force? In that context, are not the figures excellent? Do the figures include expenditure on work experience and, if so, what is that figure?
§ Mr. HanleyI thoroughly agree with my hon. Friend that peace in Northern Ireland will be hastened by a healthy economy and by a well-trained work force. As for work experience, I am grateful for the reminder. Action for Community Employment—ACE—is providing an extra £50 million in 1991–92 and 9,850 places of work experience.
§ Mr. Clifford ForsytheDoes the Minister agree that it is rather pointless to train individuals in any field if, when they are qualified, their qualifications are not properly recognised? For example, when will the Minister reintroduce plumbers' registration in Northern Ireland so that consumers are properly protected?
§ Mr. HanleyI am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his comments. He is one of the greatest plumbers ever elected to the House. I shall raise the issue with my hon. Friend the Member for Wiltshire, North (Mr. Needham), who is currently trying to drum up inward investment into Northern Ireland from north America.