Government must tackle the failure of a third of employers to provide any training

UCU general secretary Sally Hunt said: 'UCU welcomes any move to improve adults' opportunities to receive high quality education and training . This is certainly a step in the right direction and we await the details of these proposals.

'UCU supports the right to paid educational leave for all and also the right of trade unions to negotiate with employers on training provision for employees.

'I am wary however of the phrase "demand-led adult skills system" as affordability also affects demand. And while increasing skills training is welcome, there is a need to reverse the current reductions in adult education classes and the government's restriction of funds for graduates who wish to study a second equivalent or lower qualification (ELQ).

'For real progress in the nation's skills levels, the government must tackle the failure of a third of employers to provide any training at all. The most recent National Employers Skills Survey report, from 2007, reveals that many employers claim their staff are "fully proficient" while accepting that their businesses have significant skills gaps.'