§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Employment what is the average cost to train engineering apprentices; what shortages there are of skilled engineering machinists; how many and where and which specified skills are in short supply; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonThe Engineering Industry Training Board estimates that in 1982–83 the total net cost of training a craftsman to board standards was £12,700; the corresponding figure for a technician was £16,000. 259W There is no evidence currently of any general shortage of skilled engineering machinists although local short-term shortages may occur from time to time for a variety of reasons. More detailed information is not available.