§ Helen JacksonTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what action she is taking to improve the skills base of manufacturing industry. [130825]
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§ Jacqui SmithMy Department published a manufacturing strategy in May 2002; it sets out seven areas of activity for manufacturing success of which one was raising skills and education levels.
My right hon. Friends the Secretaries of State for Trade and Industry and for Education and Skills have since set out in the Governments Skills Strategy launched in July 2003 how we are putting employers centre stage, ensuring they have the right skills to support their businesses and organisations.
This Skills Strategy applies to the manufacturing industry as to other industries and all areas of UK business.