Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what discussions he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer, on increasing apprenticeship opportunities for young people.

This government is transforming the apprenticeships levy into a new growth and skills levy in England, backed by over £1 billion of additional investment, which will support 50,000 more young people into apprenticeships, give employers greater flexibility to develop the workforce they need, and support the industrial strategy.

To expand opportunities for young people, we are now fully funding apprenticeships for all eligible young people aged under 25 and have introduced a £2,000 hiring payment for non-levy paying employers (who are typically SMEs) that recruit apprentices aged under 25. We’ve also introduced foundation apprenticeships to provide entry level opportunities in sectors, such as construction, hospitality and retail; these come with £2,000 of additional funding for employers.

Alongside this, the Government is investing £240 million to pilot enhanced apprenticeship brokerage services across all 14 Mayoral Strategic Authorities (MSAs). The programme will help more young people aged 16-24, including those who are not in education, employment or training (NEET), to access apprenticeship opportunities while supporting employers to recruit local talent.

The government also facilitates and funds the Apprenticeship Ambassador Network (AAN) which comprises 2,000 employers and apprentices who actively volunteer to promote the benefits of apprenticeships, including in schools and colleges.

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has regular conversations with his colleagues including the Chancellor.