Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, whether he is taking steps to enable police forces in Wales to access funding from the apprenticeship levy; and if he will make a statement.

At a time when we are increasing investment in policing and the police are actively recruiting, the police constable degree apprenticeship is an important addition to the way forces recruit. It is also an attractive opportunity for people who want to earn while they learn in a valuable and exciting job.

That is why the Government stepped in earlier this year to provide £600k short-term funding to allow Welsh forces to proceed with recruiting and training new officers through this important route.

While this funding has helped Welsh forces to put provision in place during the current financial year, the UK Government clearly wants to ensure the best possible outcome for forces across England and Wales. We are working with our partners across Government, in the College of Policing, Welsh Government and Welsh forces to find a long-term solution to this issue.