Lib Dem MPs welcome record numbers of apprentices in Cornwall

New figures reveal that in Cornwall, 5,050 people benefitted from an apprenticeship last year, an increase of 36% from 2010.

The figures have been released by the Coalition Government during National Apprenticeships Week. The promotion is seeking to build on last year’s success with events in schools and businesses.

Commenting, Stephen Gilbert, MP for St Austell & Newquay, said:

“The increase in apprenticeship numbers is good for people looking for work, good for employers and good for Cornwall. I hope that as we see more and more businesses choose to make Cornwall their home, we will also see a further increase in these vital opportunities for local people to learn a trade and find long-term work.”

MP for West Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Andrew George added:

“We still need to give this a further push in Cornwall. The Coalition Government is doing the right thing by giving employers further encouragement to train young people and create opportunities for apprentices.

“The growth in apprenticeships is essential in our efforts to rebalance the economy away from financial speculators in the City of London, as we clear up Labour’s economic mess.”

North Cornwall’s MP Dan Rogerson said:

“This encouraging growth in apprentices is welcome news for young people in Cornwall. Apprenticeships equip our young people with the skills needed to get jobs and build prosperous careers. Our apprentices are putting businesses on stronger ground to be successful and create jobs and growth in our area.

“It is great to see the Coalition Government recognising the need to value and invest in young people and give them the very best in training and employment opportunities.”

Commenting further, Liberal Democrat Business Secretary, Vince Cable said:

“National Apprenticeships Week is the time to celebrate the countless achievements of learners and employers, and to call on more firms to hire an apprentice and enjoy the competitive advantage they can bring to a business.

“I am very proud of the fact that at a time of financial constraint this Coalition Government has prioritised investment in apprenticeships. This has led to the creation of record numbers of apprenticeships combined with tough new standards to drive up quality.

“Apprenticeships are at the centre of the Coalition’s skills policy because we know that they work. Not only do they provide individuals with the skills they need for prosperous and rewarding careers, they also boost businesses’ profits and drive growth in the wider economy.

“We are providing extra help to enable small employers to hire their first apprentices. We will also continue to develop new advanced and higher-level apprenticeships to deliver the world-class skills individuals and firms need to get ahead.”

 

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