Context
A recent report from the Resolution Foundation highlights difficulties faced by over-50s in finding work, emphasizing employers' insistence on A-levels or university degrees despite their irrelevance to job requirements. This issue is particularly concerning given the historical context where such qualifications were less common among this age group.
Question
What recent assessment has been made of the proportion of the population aged 50-66 with a university degree or two A-levels? This question is timely as today's report from the Resolution Foundation highlights difficulties faced by over-50s in finding work, with employers insisting on irrelevant qualifications like degrees and A-levels, despite their lesser availability among this age group. Can we get employers to focus on experience rather than just paper qualifications?
Answer from Gavin Williamson
The right hon. Gentleman is correct, as he often states; it is crucial that employers look at the true value a worker can bring based on their career experience and not just formal qualifications such as A-levels or degrees, which may be irrelevant to job requirements. I would work with him to ensure all employers understand the importance of valuing employees of all ages.
Not addressed: The Minister did not address how exactly he will work with John Spellar to change employer practices or provide specific actions beyond agreeing on the principle.
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