Oral Answers to Questions

Jim Shannon Excerpts
Monday 9th September 2024

(4 days, 5 hours ago)

Commons Chamber
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Nusrat Ghani Portrait Madam Deputy Speaker
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I call Jim Shannon to show us how it is done.

Jim Shannon Portrait Jim Shannon (Strangford) (DUP)
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I thank the Minister for her response to those questions. I know that she does not have direct responsibility for Northern Ireland, but may I ask her about apprenticeships? In defence and cyber-security—in Thales and Spirit AeroSystems—and in agrifood, opportunities should be there for young ladies as well as for young men. What is being done to ensure that there is equality of opportunity for everyone, both male and female?

Bridget Phillipson Portrait Bridget Phillipson
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The hon. Gentleman makes an important point about ensuring that people from a range of different backgrounds, including young women, see the opportunities that exist. I have had the opportunity to meet my counterparts in Northern Ireland and I look forward to working with them to ensure that, across the UK, we can drive forward on skills, growth and opportunities for all our young people.