§ Mr. WillisTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will make a statement on his policy74W in respect of allowing certain employers exemption from the requirement to permit employees aged 16 or 17 years the right to time off for study or training. [22371]
§ Dr. HowellsThe legislation proposed in clauses 23 and 24 of the Teaching and Higher Education Bill will apply to all employers. The Government will continue to work with employers, and other key partners, to build on existing good practice, so that the legislation can be implemented in a way that is both sensible and flexible, and attains its objective of enabling all young people who are able to achieve qualifications at Level 2 (whether National Vocational Qualification or equivalent).
§ Mr. WillisTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what plans he has to exempt employers who offer in-house training for employees aged 16 and 17 years from the requirement to allow such employees time off for study or training; and if he will make a statement. [22369]
§ Dr. HowellsThe long-term aim of this Government is that all young people who are able should achieve qualifications at least at Level 2 (whether National Vocational Qualification or equivalent), to equip them for the world of work. The legislation proposed in the Teaching and Higher Education Bill will apply to all employers. No employer will be exempt, but in-house training during the employee's working hours which leads to a relevant qualification, and which meets the requirements of reasonableness that are set out, will enable the employer to meet his obligations under the proposed legislation.