§ 20. Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment what action his Department is taking to tackle skill shortages in south and east London; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. CopeThe continuing strength of the economy is leading to increasing demand for skills. It is primarily the responsibility of employers to meet their needs. The Government have increased its investment in training massively since 1979 both generally and in areas like the south and east of London. For example the London Docklands development corporation has supported 3,000 training places and this Department is supporting two school industry compacts.