Training

HC Deb 07 February 1977 vol 925 cc558-9W

Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what special studies are being made of the training of girls for skilled work in industry.

Mr. Golding

I am informed by the Manpower Services Commission that it is not carrying out any special studies at present, but the Training Services Agency did urge in its report—Training Opportunities for Women—thatmore should be done to encourage girls to go into craft training". The report did add, however, that this is not an area which seems to be of interest to more than a small minority of girls, and progress in developing craft employment for girls is likely to be slow ".

Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what is the total of places in Government training centres in Yorkshire and Humberside for training in engineering skills.

Mr. Golding

I am informed by the Manpower Services Commission that the number is 614.

Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what is the total of places in Government training centres in Yorkshire and Humberside for the training of welders.

Mr. Golding

I am informed by the Manpower Services Commission that the number is 192.

Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what is the total of training places in Government training centres in Yorkshire and Humberside for training in electrical engineering and electronics.

Mr. Golding

I am informed by the Manpower Services Commission that the number is 250.

Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what discussions are currently in progress between his Department, the Manpower Services Commission, and NEDO, concerning a comprehensive plan for training and employment of boys and girls in the 16 to 19 years age groups; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Golding

The Manpower Services Commission has set up a working party, composed of representatives from interested bodies including the TUC and CBI, to consider the feasibility of securing an objective that all unemployed young people in this age group who are not in higher or further education should have the opportunity of training or participation in a job creation or work experience scheme.