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Written question asked by Lord Freyberg (Crossbench) on Tuesday, 15 October 2024, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 29 October 2024. It was answered by Baroness Twycross (Labour) on Monday, 28 October 2024 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Crafts: Visas

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to (1) reduce the costs of sponsoring foreign skilled makers, and (2) establish a centralised database to facilitate workshop exchanges and streamline short-term travel abroad for UK apprentices and craftspeople.

Answer

The Government is committed to supporting our heritage, culture and creative industries to thrive for years to come.

We recognise the value of cross-border exchanges for craftspeople, particularly in Europe. The UK has a number of visa routes suitable for people coming to work in skilled trades, or to do training or work experience. More broadly, the Government will work to improve the UK’s trade and investment relationship with the EU by tearing down unnecessary barriers to trade.

The Government recognises there are skills gaps and shortages in creative sectors and is working with industry to identify current and future skills needs. Across the economy, the people that create and work in businesses will be central to successful growth, and the Government has already taken some steps to support this, including establishing Skills England. We have heard calls from businesses for greater flexibility in our apprenticeships system, and greater flexibility in how employers spend levy funds. And we are acting. That’s why our reformed growth and skills levy will deliver greater flexibility for learners and employers.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL1610
Session
2024-26
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Databases Costs Apprentices Visas Crafts
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk