HC Deb 26 May 2004 vol 421 cc1652-3W
Mr. Simon

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what his budget is for staff training in information and communication technology in this financial year. [173720]

Yvette Cooper

Basic information and communication technology (ICT) training is given to all staff of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister. Specific supplementary courses of training are available depending on the needs of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and those of individual members of staff.

Each business unit is responsible for its training budget, and the information technology (IT) element is not identified separately.

Mr. Simon

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what his targets are for improving the information and communication technology (ICT) skills base of staff within(a) his Department and (b) its agencies; and what method he uses to certify the competence levels achieved by staff receiving training in ICT. [173721]

Yvette Cooper

To improve specialist skills and capability in information and communication technology (ICT), the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is establishing an e-Implementers Group to promote and disseminate and develop best practice to staff working on ICT and e-Business projects. We will also start piloting the European Computer Driving Licence in June 2004. This is an internationally recognised qualification that enables people to demonstrate their computer skills.

The improvement of ICT skills forms part of the Office of the Deputy Prime Ministers Development and Training Strategy, providing the skills, knowledge and competencies needed for particular roles. This process is managed and monitored through the Performance Management process.