If measures are not taken to up-skill the UK population, the country’s skills base will be inferior to many other nations, a government-backed investigation has concluded.
In 2004, the government comissioned Lord Leitch to lead an independent review of the UK’s skills base and identify the country’s long-term skills needs.
His final report, entitled ‘Prosperity for all in the Global Economy’, has identified targets which must be achieved by 2020 to ensure the nation can successfully compete on a global stage.
“Without increased skills, we would condemn ourselves to a lingering decline in competitiveness, diminishing economic growth and a bleaker future for all. The case for action is compelling and urgent,” Leitch said.
According to the Treasury, the report has been published at a time of economic strength in the UK, after 14 years of unbroken growth and one of the highest employment rates in the developed world.
However the report, publised today, stresses there is no room for complacency if Britain wants to retain a competitive edge alongside growing economies in countries such as India and China.
Reform is needed, the report says, as aspects of the UK's skills base are already weaker than those in other developed economies.
Leitch recommends a number of initiatives to bridge the skills gap, such as the creation of a new Commission for Employment and Skills, which will increase employer engagement and investment in training
Commenting on the report, Brendan Barber, general secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) said: “Lord Leitch’s call on employers to publicly pledge their commitment to increase skills sends a strong message to those employers who short change staff, and the UK economy, by refusing to train.”
“The new right to workplace training would transform the lives of millions, especially low skilled and low paid workers, as well as boosting Britain's competitiveness.”
© Crimson Business Ltd. 2006
