Draft Education (Repeal of Arrangements for Vocational Qualifications Awarded or Authenticated in Northern Ireland) Order 2016 Debate
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Nicholas Dakin
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Draft Education (Repeal of Arrangements for Vocational Qualifications Awarded or Authenticated in Northern Ireland) Order 2016
Nicholas Dakin Excerpts(8 years, 3 months ago)
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Nic Dakin (Scunthorpe) (Lab)
As always, it is a pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, Mr Streeter.
The Minister has outlined very clearly the reasons for taking these steps, which we support. The CCEA Regulation already regulates the majority of qualifications in Northern Ireland, so it makes great sense to introduce this measure. The Northern Ireland Executive have requested the changes and it is right and proper that the UK Government accede to that request. The Minister clearly spelt out the policy background, which is plainly stated in paragraph 7.1 of the explanatory memorandum and gives us context for today’s debate.
I have only a couple of questions for the Minister. He spoke very helpfully about the communication and practical steps already in place, but will he say what steps are being taken to ensure the smoothest possible transfer from Ofqual to the CCEA? Also, will he reassure us about the support being given to the staff affected by the closure of the small Ofqual office in Belfast?