Supporting apprentices in small businesses – Gordon Birtwistle MP  

Apprenticeships have reached record highs in the academic year 2010/11, thanks to Liberal Democrats in the Coalition Government. More than 440,000 learners started an apprenticeship last year, which is an increase of 50% compared to the year before. In Burnley and Padiham, 870 learners took on an apprenticeship in 2010/11, an increase of 73%. Apprenticeships give people the skills and experience needed to succeed on the job market and create the skills necessary in the workforce for sustainable growth. Liberal Democrats have long called for a significant increase in apprenticeships and Lib Dem Business Secretary, Vince Cable, has made this a priority. To support more employers, especially small businesses, to take on apprentices, the Coalition Government this week announced a number of measures, including: Offering employers with up to 50 employees an incentive payment of £1,500 to take...