HC Deb 16 July 1993 vol 228 cc682-3W
Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Employment what plans he has to provide more apprenticeships; and if he will make a statement.

Miss Widdecombe

In national vocational qualifications we now have an employer-led framework of qualifications which young people can achieve through work-based training, building on the best of our apprenticeship traditions. These training arrangements and qualifications have much to contribute in improving economic competitiveness and equipping young people for rewarding careers.

Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what consultations he proposes with(a) the Trades Union Congress and (b) employers to consider ways of stimulating the growth in the number of apprenticeships in British industry.

Miss Widdecombe

Interest in a modern, revitalised apprenticeship system features prominently in discussions I have with representatives of both employers and employees. All concerned need to be clear that work— based training and vocational qualifications deserve equal esteem alongside other education and training options open to young people.