§ Mr. SimmondsTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what discussions his Department has had with employers(a) groups and (b) federations regarding the skills gap. [179418]
§ Mr. Ivan LewisThe Department has regular exchanges with employer groups and federations about skills gap and skills shortage issues. This was of crucial importance in the development of the Skills Strategy—"21st Century Skills, Realising Our Potential" when we consulted all our partners and stakeholders. The Skills Strategy is now being taken forward by a new Skills Alliance. This brings together the social and economic partners including the CBI, TUC and Small Business Council with Government aria our key delivery agencies.