Following a meeting with local businesses hosted by the Federation of Small Businesses, Rugby’s Member of Parliament has highlighted their concerns in Parliament.
Speaking during Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Questions, Mark raised the challenges that businesses face in recruiting new members of staff with the right skills. Mark asked the Secretary of State, the Rt. Hon. Greg Clark MP, what the Government was proposing to ensure that young people in particular have the right skills to prosper in the modern economy.
Responding for the Government, the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy said that one of the big results of the consultation on the industrial strategy, is a need to improve the level of skills and technical education and training in Britain.
Mark said:
“Rugby is home to many brilliant manufacturing and engineering businesses, however I am aware of concerns within the industry about future recruitment and ensuring our young people have the skills they need. The nature of work in a modern economy has evolved dramatically in recent years and helping the next generation to rise to this challenge must be at the heart of training and technical education.”
Mark continued:
“I am pleased that the Government recognises this important issue and during the last Parliament outlined proposals to bring forward the most ambitious post-16 education reforms since A-levels were introduced 70 years ago. I will look forward to the Government’s response to the consultation on the Industrial Strategy and I welcome the Secretary of State’s comments on this matter.”
Mark concluded:
“During my time as Rugby’s Member of Parliament, I have met with both businesses and education providers in our town. We are very fortunate that Warwickshire College works closely with local businesses and I joined local businesses at the Rugby College site for National Apprentices Week to talk to students about the importance of good technical education. I hope that as the Government sets out its proposals for new qualifications, Rugby can continue to build on the great history we have of engineering and manufacturing.”