Transport Workforce Migration 2023-12-14
2023-12-14
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question addresses potential impacts of reducing net migration on the transport industry, highlighting concerns about labour shortages and the need for a skilled workforce.
What discussions has he had with Cabinet colleagues on the potential impact of Government proposals to reduce net migration on the transport sector workforce?
I regularly engage with Cabinet colleagues on Government policy, including migration, and my Department works closely with organisations across the transport industry to understand the sector's concerns about the transport labour market.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific impact of reducing net migration was not addressed.
Changing Subject
General Statement
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The question discusses the ongoing driver shortage in the UK, citing statistics from the Office for National Statistics that show a decrease of 6,000 delivery and courier drivers between years. More than half of the country's HGV drivers are expected to retire within a decade.
Figures show there were 6,000 fewer delivery and courier drivers in the UK last year compared to the previous year, with more than half of HGV drivers due to retire in the next decade. What steps is he taking to ensure this does not become an even bigger issue?
It is disappointing that the SNP's first response to any tightness in the labour market is to want to import people from abroad. My colleague, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, along with officials in their Department and our jobcentre network, ensures skills training for those already in the UK to address skill shortages.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific steps taken were not detailed; instead, it focused on disapproval of importing people from abroad.
Changing Subject
Criticising Opposition
Response accuracy