Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that sufficient tradesmen are trained to support an increase in housing construction.

The Government is committed to significantly increasing the quantity and quality of all apprenticeships in England to 3 million starts by 2020; the construction industry will have an important part to play in achieving this target.

Development of skilled labour can only be achieved with engagement of the industry. Construction employers in England are engaged in the Trailblazer process to develop apprenticeship standards that are fit for business, and we have announced a new apprenticeships levy which will put investment in training, and apprenticeships specifically, on a long-term, sustainable footing.

Initiatives, by the Construction Leadership Council, or through the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) are seeking to encourage more young people into construction careers. This work includes the launch of the GO-Construct website and work with the National Careers Service and Construction Ambassadors for schools.

The CITB and CITB Northern Ireland have also developed a range of initiatives. In England these include working closely with the Department for Work and Pensions, the Armed Forces resettlement service, Local Enterprise Partnerships and the Home Builders Federation, to encourage experienced individuals into the sector. The CITB continues to work closely with the Home Builders Federation to support skills initiatives.

However, as noted in my answer to PQ UIN 18208 skills policy (including apprenticeships policy) is a devolved matter. In Northern Ireland, it is the responsibility of the Department of Employment and Learning.