Graham Evans: How will the Government boost the number of apprentices and ensure that those who complete their training will get the status and recognition that they deserve?
Mr Hayes: It was Dr. Johnson who said that a lack of manual dexterity constitutes a form of ignorance. The Government are determined to boost the number of apprenticeships, which is why we have put in place funding for 75,000 more adult apprenticeships and 30,000 more apprenticeships for young people. Today, in The Times-I know you will have seen it, Mr Speaker; others may not have done-we have for the first time celebrated the achievements of those who achieved higher apprenticeships in 2010. This ensures that apprentices and all those who aspire to and achieve vocational qualifications get the status and recognition that they deserve.