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Commenting on the publication recently of the government’s white paper in response to the recommendations of the Independent Panel on Technical Education, TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said:

“The government must not delay implementing the important recommendations from the Independent Panel on Technical Education. They can act as a real roadmap to the high-skill workforce the UK needs.

“Decent technical education requires high standards and robust monitoring. We are glad that the Institute for Apprenticeships will have a wider remit, and a clear role in assuring quality. 

“Trade unions must be given a central role in setting and monitoring quality standards, ensuring that workers are represented and receive high quality training.

“But if these reforms are going to succeed, the government must back them up with serious investment in colleges and further education.

“Britain faces a challenging future outside of the European Union, so improving our workforce’s skills is vital. We also need a major new programme of infrastructure investment to upgrade our economy, boost growth and expand opportunities.”

NOTES TO EDITORS: 

• All TUC press releases can be found at www.tuc.org.uk
• Follow the TUC on Twitter: @The_TUC and follow the TUC press team @tucnews