§ Mr. HopkinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what steps she is taking to raise the level of skills in UK manufacturing. [52017]
§ John HealeyArrangements for training in the manufacturing industry are a matter for employers, as in any other industry. However, my Department has in place a wide range of policies designed to improve the nation's skills base. There are four key elements to our strategy for achieving a high skills, high value added economy, they are to:
- strengthen the links between learning and employment;
- create excellence in vocational learning;
- work with employers to boost skills and productivity;
- promote the adult basic skills strategy.
Within this context we are developing a network of Sector Skills councils that will engage employers more fully in the planning and delivery of learning and skills. We are pleased that important manufacturing interests such as textiles, oil and gas production, refining and distribution and chemicals manufacture are represented among the trailblazer Sector Skills councils. We are committed to building the conditions in which a successful manufacturing sector can thrive. The network of business-led councils will provide the framework in which to develop a highly skilled workforce that will support improved productivity and innovation in manufacturing companies in the UK.