Partnerships between government and industry would improve levels of skills and training, the new higher education minister told the Innovation, Universities, Science and Skills Committee on Wednesday.
David Lammy MP noted the 25 sector skills councils (SSC) had been a significant improvement. He added that the UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES) provided an independent voice which represented the interests of employers and unions.
Asked how he planned to recruit uptake of new initiatives, David said this was already happening – recalling students' commitment to apprenticeships and said these efforts were being coordinated with the Department for Children, Schools and Families efforts on diplomas.
On adult training, he highlighted a number of initiatives in operation, such as advertising campaigns, union learn and skills for life, calling them a success.
The issue of accountability was raised and David said that he and the government were responsible but that other bodies, such as the UKCES, the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) and local authorities had their own targets to achieve.
Questioned about the differences between skills and qualifications, he noted that these initiatives were mostly being taken up by those from social groups D and E. He said it was important these groups were not denied qualifications.
David said the fundamental point was how public funding could best target those with low skills and to the change the system to be demand-led.
Pressed on whether new qualifications would be accepted by higher education institutions, he said that he was not in a position to comment in great depth at this stage.
Referring to Committee member Ian Gibson's concern that there was no job for life, David asserted the importance of concentrating on the adult advancement service and equipping people with information and support.