We are pleased the Government has listened to our calls and put skills at the heart of the Industrial Strategy.

The overall boost in funding is welcome, however business are 'deeply disappointed' about plans to defund the majority of Level 7 opportunities.

Businesses are keen to unlock more home-grown talent and will welcome the broad direction of travel in today’s White Paper.

This is a critical stage in the process and the window of opportunity to get the right balance in the Employment Rights Bill is fast closing.

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is warning of a lost generation unless the Government urgently tackles the jobs crisis among young people.

The rising cost of employment is a major challenge for employers. While wage growth has eased once again, it continues to significantly outpace inflation.

While the government has consulted with business, and listened to concerns, the legislation still does not strike the right balance.

The labour market remains a significant challenge for employers who are struggling with skills shortages, higher wage costs and the imminent hike in employment taxes.