§ Mr. Allan StewartTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has considered the responses to the consultative paper on whether the remit of the National Council for Vocational Qualifications should extend to Scotland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RifkindI have decided that the advantages to be gained by individuals and employers in Scotland from the development of nationally recognised vocational standards can be achieved without extension of the remit of the National Council for Vocational Qualifications to Scotland at present. The Scottish Vocational Education Council (SCOTVEC) will continue to work closely with employers, examining bodies, and the training agency in the United Kingdom to ensure that its qualifications meet the needs of British as well as Scottish employers. I look forward to SCOTVEC continuing to maintain and develop its constructive relationship with the NCVQ, which I will keep under review.