§ 41. Mr. Brandon-BravoTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment if he will make a statement about proposals to deal with skill shortages.
§ Mr. CopeThe strength of our economy means that some employers are finding it more difficult to meet some of their skills needs through recruitment. Employers can improve the supply of skills they need by providing the proper incentives for individuals to acquire the right skills and experience and by stepping up investment in training.
We have given a lead by expanding our investment in training to around £3 billion in 1989–90 from £458 million in 1979–80. YTS guarantees up to two years' training for 16 and 17-year-old school leavers and the new 1.4 billion employment training programme will provide unemployed adults with the skills which today's jobs demand.
The Manpower Services Commission is also continuing to develop its programmes to encourage employers to recognise and meet their own training needs.