§ Paul HolmesTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many people entered Work-Based Learning for Adults in each year since 1997; and if he will make a statement. [114478]
§ Mr. Nicholas BrownThe information requested is in the table. Figures provided are for England only, as responsibility for Government-funded training in Wales and Scotland is devolved to the Welsh Assembly and the Scottish Parliament respectively.
Work-Based Learning for Adults (WBLA)—Delivered by Training and Enterprise Councils Starts to WBLA 1997–98 183,600 1998–99 98,100 1999–2000 102,700 2000–01 108,300 Source:
DfEE WBLA Trainee Database
Work Based Learning for Adults (WBLA)—Delivered by Jobcentre Plus Starts to WBLA 2001–02 67,700 April 2002 to December 02 53,200 Source:
DWP WBLA Evaluation Database
Several factors have contributed to the reduction in the numbers of people starting Work-Based Learning for Adults (WBLA) since 1997. These include: the fall in unemployment since 1997; the restriction of WBLA provision to people aged 25 and over (excluding exempt groups) following the introduction of New Deal for Young People; and the introduction of New Deal 25 plus in April 2001. This resulted in JSA recipients unemployed for over 18 months becoming ineligible for Work Based Learning for Adults.