§ Mr. Hillasked the Secretary of State for Employment how many engineering apprenticeships are likely to be available to school leavers in the current year compared with the last two years; and whether he expects that the number will be sufficient to meet the needs of the forecast upturn in the economy.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonIn 1979–80 there were 21,328 and in 1980–81 20,180 craft and technician trainees undergoing first year training approved by the Engineering Industry Training Board. Forecasting future intakes of trainees necessary for future skill needs is difficult but the engineering board has set a target of 20,000 for this year. It is concerned, however, that there may be a shortfall in industry recruitment of apprentices, and the Government and the Manpower Services Commission are currently considering the need and scope for action to increase the number of apprenticeships.