“This is a great start for the Governments apprenticeships plans and a real show of intent for the future”

Said Scott Collins, Parliamentary Spokesman for South Northamptonshire, on hearing the great news that the Government has delivered more than 100,000 extra apprenticeships, twice as many as expected.

Figures released by the Government show that over 103,000 additional apprenticeship started in 2010-2011, bringing the total number of people on an apprenticeship scheme to 257,000.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Business Secretary, Vince Cable, said:

“The growth in apprenticeships to more than double the planned ambition, demonstrates our commitment to delivering the skills businesses need to grow and young people need to build productive careers.

“We’re determined to do more to boost growth, rebalance the economy, extend opportunity and break down barriers between academic and vocational learning.

“Our planned investment will deliver some 360,000 apprenticeships this year alone, and we’ll continue to work with the business community to make it easier for more employers of all sizes to take on an apprentice and reap the benefits they bring.

“With every £1 of Government money delivering a return of some £40 to the wider economy, this is a sound investment in the country’s future.”

Commenting further Scott said “I am sure young people across South Northamptonshire have benefited from the new apprenticeship places but i will be investigating exactly how many as its important that South Northants and local businesses enjoys the success and benefits of the increased trained staff