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date: 22 July 2010

embargo: For immediate release

Right to request training will enable workers to improve their skills

Commenting on the Skills for Sustainable Growth consultation, launched today (Thursday) by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:

'Ten million workers received no training last year so the Government must use every possible lever to encourage more employers to offer staff training.

'The consultation rightly focuses on the needs of learners in delivering training. The Government can achieve this by honouring the right to request time off for training, which gives workers the flexibility they need to improve their skills.

'We welcome the recognition that unions can play a key role - particularly through our network of 25,000 learning reps - in encouraging employers and workers to take up training.

'But while no one disputes the economic imperative for a better skilled workforce, modern research facilities, apprenticeship schemes and employer incentives to train their staff require investment as well as good will.

'It's therefore vital the Government's commitment to skills is not undermined by self-defeating budget cuts.'

NOTES TO EDITORS:

- The BIS consultation document Skills for Sustainable Growth is available at www.bis.gov.uk/Consultations/fe-funding-consultation?cat=open

- All TUC press releases can be found at www.tuc.org.uk

- Congress 2010 will be held at the Manchester Central Convention Complex from Monday
13 September to Thursday 16 September. Free media passes can be obtained by visiting www.tuc.org.uk/congress/tuc-18063-f0.cfm and returning a form. Applications must be in by noon on Monday 6 September. Any received later than that will be processed in Manchester and will cost £50.

Contacts:

Media enquiries:
Rob Holdsworth T: 020 7467 1372 M: 07717 531150 E: rholdsworth@tuc.org.uk

Press release (300 words) issued 22 Jul 2010