Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, what proportion of apprentices are working less than 16 hours per week as part of their apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships are a full-time job; therefore it is a condition that apprentices are employed for at least 30 hours per week. In exceptional circumstances, such as where the apprentice has caring responsibilities, a minimum of 16 hours per week may be agreed. Where employment is for less than 30 hours per week, the duration of an Apprenticeship must be extended in proportion so that the minimum requirements on duration are still met.