[Sir Graham Brady in the Chair]

Supported comments made earlier, highlighting issues in Northern Ireland with refugees from Syria and Afghanistan still residing in hotels despite willingness from local companies to employ them. Jim Shannon highlighted significant labour shortages in food production, hospitality, and motor repair industries within his constituency. He noted that local businesses such as Willowbrook Foods and Mash Direct have available jobs for Afghan refugees but face difficulties filling these roles due to a lack of skilled workers. Shannon also emphasized the need for improvements in apprenticeship programs, suggesting higher pay rates could attract more talent. Additionally, he mentioned potential financial losses amounting to £39 billion annually if labour shortages are not addressed.

Commends Patricia Gibson's exposition on skills and labour shortages in Scotland, highlights the importance of reducing red tape for employers and universities. Stresses the need for a pragmatic approach to replacing free movement, underlines the role of apprenticeships and adult education, and raises concerns about trade unions' contribution amid government attacks. Discusses difficulties faced by small businesses and food production sectors due to staff shortages, mentions the need for asylum seekers to work. Highlights specific challenges in the renewables sector and calls for better support from the Government.

The hon. Member questioned the government's post-Brexit migration approach, suggesting it negatively impacts sectors like agriculture and healthcare due to a lack of crucial workers. Does the right hon. Lady agree that investing time and money in engaging unemployed younger people could help address labour and skills shortages, potentially balancing out inactivity among those approaching retirement?

She highlighted the need for a long-term perspective on skills strategy, particularly in light of automation and AI's impact on job sectors. Greenwood criticised the Government's current approach to adult education funding and its focus on vocational training at the expense of broader educational opportunities. Asked how we will get investment in adult basic skills, highlighting that local employers may not consider those who cannot read or write well, expressing concern that this cohort might miss out on help.

Responded that recent net migration figures are around half a million, indicating a liberal immigration policy focused on economic needs. Apprenticeships are a highly effective way to improve people's skills, boosting productivity and addressing labour shortages. Since the Conservatives returned in 2010, there have been around 5.2 million apprenticeships delivered. However, there has been a slight fall since the COVID pandemic which needs addressing.

Congratulated the hon. Member and clarified whether the suggestion is for a 24-month visa scheme or a return to freedom of movement, addressing concerns about Brexit's impact exacerbated by the pandemic. I share the right hon. Lady's enthusiasm for apprenticeships but am concerned about the decline in apprenticeship numbers since the introduction of the apprenticeship levy, particularly in small and medium-sized enterprises. I suggest making the apprenticeship levy more flexible to include these businesses. Asked Theresa Villiers to acknowledge the retrograde and politically motivated move of getting rid of Unionlearn, a programme that enabled workers in the workplace to access basic skills training. Skills shortages are a significant issue across the UK. The removal of freedom of movement due to Brexit has exacerbated this, along with an increase in workers leaving during the pandemic. Toby supports a broader strategic migration plan and recognises the need for migrant workers, especially in unskilled environments. He also highlights population growth differences between England and Scotland, arguing that there are different needs within the UK.