Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Josh MacAlister and Lauren Edwards

Monday 19th January 2026 Commons Chamber

[Lauren Edwards (Rochester and Strood) (Lab)]

T2. There is concern in the hospitality industry that the Government are reviewing funding for some important level 3 and level 4 apprenticeships, such as those used to train chefs. Hospitality is a key means by which we can tackle the challenge for those not in education, employment or training, but to deliver positive long-term change, we must have an apprenticeship system that allows young people to progress, rather than just giving them a foot in the door. May I urge the Minister to continue to support these apprenticeships, which should be a high priority for both our labour market and our economy?

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Josh MacAlister)]

The hospitality industry is hugely important. Nothing has been decided on defunding apprenticeships yet. I recognise all my hon. Friend’s points, and we share her ambition that the apprenticeship system in the future is entirely designed around progression, as well as one-off learning.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Josh MacAlister and Lauren Edwards

Monday 1st December 2025 Commons Chamber

[Lauren Edwards (Rochester and Strood) (Lab)]

T3. I understand that the 1,000 careers advisers the Government committed to introduce will now sit within jobcentres. Will the Minister outline how the Department will work with the Department for Work and Pensions to ensure that improving careers advice in schools remains a priority? Reaching children in primary schools now is incredibly important for promoting the technical career routes that our economy will rely on in future.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Josh MacAlister)]

I thank my hon. Friend for her question. My noble Friend the Minister for Skills is working across both Departments to ensure that we bring the very important work on careers and early entry to work programmes together across the Government. I have myself seen great collaboration between both Departments in my own constituency. The Government are still committed to improving work experience for children in secondary schools and early careers education as well.