Stephen Metcalfe, local MP has today welcomed new figures showing that 500 new apprenticeships were started by people in his constituency of South Basildon and East Thurrock between August 2014 and January 2015.
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| Stephen with Engineering Apprentices from SelexES |
In total, 3,840 apprenticeships have been started in South Basildon and East Thurrock since 2010, whilst across England, over 2.2 million apprenticeships have been started since 2010.
A future Conservative government would go even further, committing to deliver 3 million apprenticeships by 2020, funded by reducing the maximum amount that can be claimed on benefits from £26,000 to £23,000, and limiting young people’s access to housing benefit.
Stephen Metcalfe commented: “These figures are fantastic news, and show that when it comes to the economy, the Conservatives have got all bases covered”.
“Not only are we creating jobs at a record level, but we are also improving the opportunities of our young people with all of these news apprenticeships”.
“We are putting apprenticeships at the heart of our long-term economic plan, funding more of them and making sure they are high quality, teaching the skills that businesses need. A future Conservative government would build on the great progress we have already made, committing to deliver 3 million more apprenticeships by 2020 and effectively to end youth unemployment.
“We are giving young people proper training and the prospect of a better future. Millions of young people are getting a good start in life, learning a trade, and knowing the purpose and pride that comes with that.”
“I am so pleased to see the young people in Basildon and Thurrock benefitting from these opportunities. I believe it is vital that the Conservatives are given the chance to secure even more opportunities for local people in the coming election”.
