§ Mr. Ernie Rossasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has studied the reports of the components and computers sector working parties of the Electronics 363W Economic Development Council on the need to train and recruit skilled personnel; and if he will take steps to develop this trend in Scotland.
§ Mr. Alexander FletcherI have noted the reports of both of the sector working parties. I also commissioned in 1981 a report by my Department and the Manpower Services Commission on the supply and demand for skilled manpower in the Scottish electronics industry. More recently the MSC published a study on the supply of computing skills in Scotland. Following these studies I took a number of initiatives to improve the supply of electronic skills at all levels. The latest indications are that serious skill shortages are confined to a small number of specific areas. My Department is however keeping a close watch on the supply and demand for skilled manpower.