Written question asked by Andrew Stephenson (Conservative) on Wednesday, 30 March 2011, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 1 April 2011. It was answered by John Hayes (Conservative) on Tuesday, 26 April 2011 on behalf of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

Apprentices: Pendle

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what steps he is taking to encourage small and medium-sized businesses in Pendle constituency to take on apprentices; what recent representations he has received on this matter; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: The National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) is working closely with employers and others to increase the number of apprenticeships in the Pennine and East Lancashire area. For example working with the Chamber of Commerce in East Lancashire hosting breakfast briefings to increase awareness; and working with CXL, Jobcentre Plus and Enterprise 4 All, promoting apprenticeships to Asian and minority ethnic businesses across Lancashire.Nationally, Government are focusing on making it easier for small and medium-enterprises (SMEs) in particular to take on new apprentices and recently announced a new £75 million programme of training and other targeted support focused specifically on SMEs to help them access advanced and higher level apprenticeships.

Secondary information