§ 57. Mr. Harold Walkerasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will list the present skillcentres showing the number of places and kinds of courses available, together with the numbers of trainees expected to be taking such courses in the current and each of the ensuing two years, comparing these with the provisions and numbers in 1978.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonThe Manpower Services Commission at present runs 68 skillcentres and 24 annexes, two young persons' training centres and the Merseyside advisory training unit. Since 1978 five skillcentres and seven annexes have been closed: skillcentres, one annex, two young persons' training centres and the Merseyside advisory training unit have been opened. More than 70 different courses are available.
51WThe table below sets out the provision available in 1978–79 and in the current financial year. The MSC's plans for subsequent years will be published shortly in the commission's corporate plan.
Financial Year Skillcentre places Number of skillcentre available trainees 1978–79 15,800 33,900 36,200 1981–82 15,600 (estimated) These figures include trainees under the training opportunities programme and the youth opportunities programme. The figures for 1981–82 but not those for 1978–79 include the Merseyside advisory training unit.
I will write to the right hon. Gentleman to give him fuller information.