The Department for
Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) will respond to today’s
report on behalf of the Government.
Pat McFadden, Minister for Business, Innovation and Skills, said:
“This report highlights a core part of the government's
mission to enhance social mobility and to ensure that it is
character, endeavour and talent that matter - not life chances at
birth or access to the right social networks.
“As the report shows, progress has been made with standards in
schools up and participation in higher education at record levels.
“The glass ceiling has been raised but the report is also right
to say that there is much more to do. It gives a welcome and
rigorous examination of where we have done well and where we have
fallen short. We welcome this work which will help shape our
future thinking.
“It will feed into the higher education framework planned for the
autumn alongside a National Skills Strategy and other government
work in the future.
“Our passion for enhancing opportunity and ambition is
undiminished after 12 years in government. We share the aim of the
report's authors - to enhance the life chances of every
young person regardless of their background or income.”
Notes to Editors
1 The Panel on Fair Access to the Professions has published its
final report. Lead by the Rt Hon. Alan Milburn its 18 panel
members examined the barriers and pathways to reaching professions
for all people - regardless of their background. The report was
commissioned by the Prime Minister following the New Opportunities
White Paper which examined the issue of social mobility and its
importance for the economy and social justice, ensuring everyone
has the chance to fulfill their potential and secure the jobs of
the future. To see the full report visit: http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/strategy/work_areas/accessprofessions.aspx
2. Pat McFadden is available for media interviews. Please call
Emma Griffiths at the BIS press office on 020 7215 5982.
Contacts:
BIS Press Office
NDS.BIS@coi.gsi.gov.uk