Oral Answers to Questions

Stephen Mosley Excerpts

Thursday 17th February 2011 Commons Chamber

[Mary Macleod (Brentford and Isleworth) (Con)]

6. How many apprenticeship starts there have been in the academic year 2010-11 to date.

[Stephen Mosley (City of Chester) (Con)]

8. How many apprenticeship starts there have been in the academic year 2010-11 to date.

[Mr David Evennett (Bexleyheath and Crayford) (Con)]

11. How many apprenticeship starts there have been in the academic year 2010-11 to date.

--- Later in debate ---

[Mr Hayes]

Businesses need to know that they will recoup their investment rapidly, with even the most expensive apprenticeships paying back in less than three years. Apprenticeships have a real link to productivity and to competitiveness. May I just say that Brentford football club had a very good result on Saturday, when they drew with Milton Keynes Dons?

[Stephen Mosley]

Chester FC was also successful last Saturday, winning 5-0; I was fortunate enough to be there. It is a community-run and owned football club, which recently launched an apprenticeship scheme employing 21 16-year-olds on sports management courses. What is the Minister doing to encourage other big society organisations to get involved with apprenticeships?

[Mr Hayes]

We are involved in an unprecedented campaign to promote the value of apprenticeships. Last week—apprenticeship week—450 events were held throughout the country. I met learners, employers and providers. Apprenticeships are top of the agenda for all those groups.