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Electronics Technology Skills: North Lancashire
29 March 2023
Lead MP
David Morris
Morecambe and Lunesdale
Con
Responding Minister
Robert Halfon
Tags
EconomyEmploymentBrexit
Word Count: 3597
Other Contributors: 0
At a Glance
David Morris raised concerns about electronics technology skills: north lancashire in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The MP asked the Government to incorporate practical workplace skills into electronics qualifications. He requested more incentives for businesses to train new staff in this discipline and urged the government to promote electronics as a career, encouraging more people to enter the workforce in this sector.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The Member of Parliament for Morecambe and Lunesdale highlighted the need for practical electronics skills in graduates to make them work-ready. He mentioned a shortage of radio frequency/analogue electronic skills and software development skills, such as proficiency with C and C++. Businesses have formed 'electech clusters' to address these gaps and are collaborating closely with educational institutions like Lancaster and Morecambe College to create relevant training programs and labs for students.
Government Response
Robert Halfon
Government Response
It is a pleasure to serve under you, Mr Hollobone, and I extend special congratulations to my hon. Friend—the Member for Morecambe and Lunesdale on securing the debate. He is a champion of skills. The Minister highlighted technological change and the future economic direction of the country means that demand for STEM skills such as electronics in the economy is growing. To address this, the Government has invested an additional £3.8 billion in further education and skills over the Parliament period. Over 90% of apprentices who complete get good jobs or go on to further education. The Minister also mentioned that there are more than 650 apprenticeship standards in general, including many opportunities in electronics such as level 2, level 3, and level 6 electrical engineering apprenticeships. In addition, the Government will invest up to £500 million a year in T-levels once they are fully rolled out. The Minister also discussed higher technical qualifications at levels 4 and 5 designed by employers to meet specific needs. Furthermore, skills bootcamps provide free training in STEM subjects with guaranteed job interviews upon completion. In north Lancashire, Tech Lancaster offers key industrial experience in electronics for adults to acquire the necessary skills local businesses need. The Minister also introduced Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs) which identify and address regional skill gaps. Overall, £2.8 billion is being invested in capital improvements including on T-levels, more post-16 places, and improving the condition of FE estates over the next three years.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.