Speaking on the issue Carla Lockhart said, “I welcome the reference within the King’s speech to review and reform the Apprenticeship Levy. Upper Bann, and indeed Northern Ireland pay on average £80million per annum to Treasury in the form of the Apprenticeship levy with many employers having to contribute 0.5% of their payroll towards it. Despite contributing to the levy, Northern Ireland does not directly receive funding from it. This has, and continues to be a bone of contention with businesses, and is something I have been seeking a change via the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee.“

The Upper Bann MP continued, “It is time for Northern Ireland young people and apprentices to see the benefits of our business investment. This is going to be incredibly beneficial for our young people across the nation if it is business lead. In Northern Ireland around 57% doing of apprentices achieved a level 2 qualification and 38% achieved a level 3. This is a great start and the building blocks are being put in place to improve on those figures. 

I am incredibly glad that the Government are recognising the important role apprenticeships play in our economy, and how it gives young students the opportunity to explore the world of work through industries, such as agriculture, engineering, manufacturing, accounting, business and so much more. I will be leading the charge on this on behalf of all businesses in Upper Bann, who despite the Governments lack of action regarding giving Northern Ireland a piece of the skills funding cake, have continued to invest in our young people and future workforce.”