Government needs to step up pace of skills reform say manufacturers

Specific measures EEF welcomed included: - the continued focus on a sectoral and demand led approach - increased support for apprenticeships - the emphasis on the role of Investors in People, although any review must take place quickly to ensure it plays a full role in the new landscape - greater recognition of employer training programmes However, EEF believes there are a number of issues that remain to be resolved, in particular the need to refine the current cluttered skills infrastructure at local level. This is especially important if employers are to be measured against progress in 2010. EEF director general, Martin Temple, said: “Whilst in no doubt of the government’s laudable aims, today’s reforms leave a number of unanswered questions. Government must now step up the pace of change if we are to put in place a simplified system that will help employers deliver a truly world class system.”