Mon, 10 Jan 2011
A Lib Dem MP in Burnley is calling for more firms to introduce
apprenticeship schemes to help boost skills and jobs in towns he claims
were neglected by the previous government.
Gordon Birtwistle spoke in Parliament about the need for more opportunities
for training and jobs for young people in his constituency. He asked, “Will
the minister ensure that the department managing the apprenticeships scheme
looks into areas such as Burnley to ensure that they are given a fair
chance of providing apprentices for the future?”
The minister for work and pensions, Steve Webb, responded, “The new
apprenticeships will indeed go to areas such as my honourable friend's
constituency, where they will provide training that leads to lasting jobs,
which are what we want to be provided.”
The area has already received a boost in the form of the opening of an
advanced manufacturing research centre on the Burnley College campus. This
opening is intended to help the region build on its existing links to the
aerospace and industrial industries.
Apprenticeships are an ideal way for businesses to provide staff training
and boost their employees' qualifications. Apprentices tend to have a
higher level of employability and can provide companies with improved
productivity, higher morale and better quality work.
Based on research of a thousand businesses, see how
nurturing talent amongst your workforce will help
you through the current economic climate. 
Thanks for your help,
The learndirect team