Written question asked by Lord Foster of Bath (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 4 March 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 12 March 2002. It was answered by David Jamieson (Labour) on Tuesday, 12 March 2002 on behalf of the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions.

Dept for Transport Local Government and the Regions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions, what steps his Department (a) has taken and (b) plans to take to address skill shortages within the railway industry.

Answer: Mr. Don Foster: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what steps his Department (a) has taken and (b) plans to take to address skill shortages within the railway industry. [40945] Mr. Jamieson: The Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) will take the lead on proposals for a National Rail Academy, to promote the development of the key skills and competencies needed to run a railway on a safe and effective basis. The SRA will also become a member of the Rail Industry Training Council and will work jointly with the Department of Education and Skills to promote an action plan on manpower planning, recruitment and training and development.

Secondary information