§ Mr. Soamesasked the Paymaster General what steps his Department is taking to increase the number of apprenticeships.
§ Mr. TrippierIndustry's skill requirements are changing, and apprenticeships are no longer the only route to full skills training. The level and nature of initial skills training is primarily a matter for employers. However, the Government are encouraging employers to make apprenticeship training more flexible, cost-effective and relevant to the needs of industry. In addition, the Government have provided support through the youth training scheme for the first year of recognised apprenticeship training and this support will be extended to two years when the new scheme is introduced in April 1986.