HC Deb 20 July 1993 vol 229 cc161-2W
Mr. Leighton

To ask the Secretary of State for Employment what is the Department doing to recapture the strength of the old apprenticeship system.

Miss Widdecombe

The Government are keen to promote and encourage the growth of modern apprenticeships offering high-quality training, open to young men and women equally and leading to national vocational qualifications which employers value. The Government already support some apprenticeships and similar training arrangements through youth credits and youth training. 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.