Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Ashok Kumar (Labour). It was answered on Monday, 27 February 2006 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Education

Question: I thank the Minister for that reply. Does he agree that, if we are to maintain a strong defence industry, we need to encourage more young people to study engineering? Will he use his good offices to build strong links between the defence industry and engineering colleges, and will he congratulate Freeborough community college in my constituency, which has just been designated as an engineering college?

Answer: I know that my hon. Friend has a distinguished background as a chemical engineer. I agree that we need to value our engineers and encourage young people to go into engineering. Defence and engineering go hand in hand, and there are many examples of how strong links between engineering, training and defence have brought great benefits to colleges and students alike. I certainly congratulate Freeborough community college on having attained the status of an engineering college.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 443 c14-5
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: 1st Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Curriculum Defence Higher education Engineering Schools Technology Research Vocational education Science Specialist schools
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk