§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what was the total spending in each Welsh county on modern apprenticeships in the past year; what were the amounts of under or overspendings; and what new subjects have now been added to the original courses offered. [33285]
§ Mr. RichardsThe information requested on expenditure in 1994–95 is not available centrally on a county basis.
The development of modern apprenticeships is fundamental to creating the competitive edge that Welsh industry needs to compete in world markets. In 1994–95, the first year of modern apprenticeships, manufacturing engineering was made a priority and 550 trainees embarked on apprenticeships in this field. In 1995–96, support for modern and accelerated modern apprenticeships is being extended to other key occupational areas needed by Welsh businesses, as shown in the following table; and it is expected that a further 3,400 young people will start apprenticeship training during the course of the year.
627W
Modern apprenticeships in Wales in 1995–96 Occupational area Gweni Mid Glamorgan North East Wales Powys South Glamorgan Targed West Wales Electrical Installation 10 15 10 — 15 17 40 Plastics Manufacture 14 35 5 — — 8 — Steel 100 — 5 — — — 45 Motor Vehicle Trades 35 35 25 10 50 27 80 Information Technology — 20 60 — — 24 20 Non Specific 80 85 15 11 — — 20 Modern Apprenticeships Total 578 630 485 95 350 320 950 Note:
Modern apprenticeships frameworks are still being developed in many areas like accountancy, banking, insurance, amenity horticulture etc./
Non specified places are to allow these to be introduced as they are developed.