Question to the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, with reference to the Professional and Business Services Jobs Plan, published on 19 October 2026, whether his Department plans to set regional or local targets for the apprenticeships and work-experience opportunities committed to by the professional and business services sector.

There are currently no plans to set regional or local targets for these commitments. The Professional and Business Services Jobs Plan sets sector-wide commitments to recruit 22,400 apprentices aged under 25 each year and increase work-experience opportunities for young people by 20% over five years. Delivery will reflect local labour-market needs, with Local Skills Improvement Plans bringing together employers, education providers and other local partners. Progress against government and industry commitments will be monitored through a shared performance framework.