§ Mr. Alan Clarkasked the Secretary of State for Employment what plans he has for the improvement, scrutiny and control of the Road Transport Industry Training Board; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Jim LesterScrutiny and control of the administrative activities of industrial training boards, including those of the Road Transport Industry Training Board, is exercised through the Manpower Services Commission, whose staff discuss plans and budgets with ITB staff each year. ITB proposals for grant aiding training have to be approved by the MSC, and proposals for levy and levy exemption have to be approved by the MSC and Secretary of State for Employment.
The Government will decide whether further action needs to be taken in the light of the report of the MCS's review of our industrial training arrangements generally, including the operation of the ITBs. The report is expected next month.