Further Education and Training

HC Deb 28 October 1999 vol 336 cc986-7W

Mr. McWalter

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what plans he has to ensure that businesses have an effective role in the new framework for further education and training. [94275]

Mr. Wicks

Businesses make an essential contribution to the framework for Further Education and Training through their involvement with Colleges, Training and Enterprise Councils and local learning partnerships. The new arrangements set out in the White Paper "Learning to Succeed" provide an enhanced role for business through the establishment of the LSC. Employers will be the largest single group on the national and local LSCs, and will be able to use their expertise and knowledge to influence more effectively the type and nature of learning provision.

In addition to their involvement of members of the national and local LSCs, the wider business community will also be able to play an important role through the local learning partnerships.