HC Deb 18 April 1990 vol 170 cc953-4W
16. Mr. John Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has received from the information technology sector on skills shortages.

Mr. Forth

There have been a number of representations from the information technology sector, in the past, with regard to IT skills shortages. In recognising this my Department has supported a number of initiatives aimed at reducing such shortages, including support of up to £440,000 over three years for the recently launched Women into Information Technology (WIT) campaign where this support is appropriately matched by industry.

70. Mr. Hoyle

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has received from the information technology sector on skills shortages.

97. Mr. Robert Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has received from the information technology sector on skills shortages.

Mr. Forth

There have been a number of representations from the information technology sector, in the past, with regard to IT skills shortages. In recognising this my Department has supported a number of initiatives aimed at reducing such shortages, including support of up to £440,000 over three years for the recently launched Women into Information Technology (WIT) campaign where this support is appropriately matched by industry.

My Department also has an Information Technology Advisory Board (ITAB) with representatives from industry, commerce and academia. One of the ITAB's support committees advises specifically on education and training and comments on IT skills issues.