§ Mrs. Curtis-ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many people of working age in(a) Merseyside and (b) the UK had no qualifications in the last year for which figures are available; and if he will make a statement. [177914]
§ Mr. Ivan LewisThe table shows the proportion and number of working age1 people with no qualifications in (a) Merseyside and (b) the United Kingdom. Data comes from the winter quarter of the Labour Force Survey (LFS) in 2003–04.
No qualifications Percentage Number Qualification level Merseyside 23.3 194,000 United Kingdom 14.4 5,223,000 Reducing the number of people with no qualifications is a major priority for the Government. The Skills Strategy announced a number of measures to address this issue. In particular, we are introducing a new entitlement to free learning for all those studying for those first Level 2 qualifications as a foundation for employability. We have also said that we will introduce a new adult learning grant of up to £30 a week for full-time learners studying for their first Level 2 qualification. We want to improve the quality of information, advice and guidance to help people choose the right course for them. Basic skills needs for those without qualifications are being addressed through the Government's Skills for Life strategy. We have also asked regional development agencies to work with the Learning and Skills Council, the Small Business Service, Jobcentre Plus, Skills for Business and others to ensure that the aims of Skills Strategy are delivered in a more co-ordinated way that connects with the needs of employers and individuals at the regional, local and sectoral level through the creation of strong and effective Regional Skills Partnerships.
1 Working age population refers to males aged 16–64 and females aged 16–59.