HC Deb 20 April 1999 vol 329 c522W
Mr. Jim Cunningham

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what measures the Government are undertaking to promote lifelong learning and develop the skills base of older workers as a means of improving the levels of employment among the over 50s. [80946]

Mr. Mudie

The Government believe that lifelong learning contributes to national competitiveness, personal prosperity and to the development of a fair and harmonious society. The aim is to develop a "learning society" in which everyone regularly updates their skills and knowledge throughout life. Action to improve learning opportunities for the over 50s is an important part of our approach to "Better Government For Older People".

Measures to promote lifelong learning and develop the skills base of older workers include: extending student loans to those aged 54, opportunities through the £15 million Adult and Community Learning Fund; access to Learning Direct and Career Development Loans; and opportunities through work based learning for adults, the New Deals and Employment Zones. In addition, the New Deal for the over 50s who are out of work for six months or more and are on income replacement benefits, and their dependent partners, announced in the budget, includes plans for a learning support of up to £750 for each person.