Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that small and medium-sized engineering businesses and employer-led training providers are represented in the development and review of Local Skills Improvement Plans.

Employer insight is a fundamental part of the Local Skills Improvement Plan process, helping to ensure that decisions about skills provision are informed by labour market demand and future workforce needs.

LSIPs are employer-led and are developed by designated Employer Representative Bodies (ERBs), which are expected to engage employers of all sizes across their area. This includes seeking views from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in particular those involved in priority sectors, which in many cases includes engineering.

The Department's statutory guidance makes clear that ERBs should engage a broad and representative range of employers and other stakeholders when developing and reviewing LSIPs. This includes working with sector bodies, business representative organisations and local employer networks to ensure that the views of SMEs are reflected in local skills priorities.

Providers of all types should be engaged during the development and implementation of their area’s LSIP, and can contribute evidence and expertise throughout the LSIP process. Their insight helps to identify current and future skills needs and informs the development of provision that meets the needs of local employers and priority sectors.

Through ongoing engagement with ERBs and local partners, the Department supports the effective operation of LSIPs and encourages participation from a wide range of employers and providers.