Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Department for Education

Oral Answers to Questions

Andrew George Excerpts
Thursday 2nd February 2012

(12 years, 3 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Vince Cable Portrait Vince Cable
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I am very surprised that the hon. Lady gives apprenticeships as the central example of failure, given that apprenticeship numbers have risen by 50% and apprenticeships are extremely popular with young people and employers. This is a success story, and I am surprised she is denigrating it.

Perhaps I should also point to the most recent indicators, which were published yesterday. In the manufacturing sector, which is absolutely critical for recovery, the purchasing managers index suggests a significant recovery in the short run.

Andrew George Portrait Andrew George (St Ives) (LD)
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The Government had the good sense to award a grant under the regional growth fund to the Goonhilly radio astronomy project in my constituency. That is very welcome, but the implementation of the decision seems rather slow. Will the Secretary of State look into the matter and accelerate the implementation of that project, which will generate many jobs in our local community?