Regarding the news that Brexit is expected to boost the UK’s apprenticeship programme, S.M. Lodha, an Indian Industrialist with interests in Iron & Steel, and Chairman of Western Thermal Group, has said:
“Given the past reported shortage of apprenticeship programmes within the construction industry earlier this year, the government’s recent apprenticeship scheme could be the solution, bringing confidence to UK businesses in the face of Brexit.
“So far, response to this scheme has been mixed since its first launch in April, criticised by some companies as a new form of tax involving the imposition of a new levy on businesses with more than 50 employees, companies with more than £3m of annual payroll must now contribute 0.5% of their total wage bill. However, following recent uncertainty towards the likelihood of a Brexit deal, the launch of this programme should now be bringing apprenticeships to the forefront in as an attractive option for companies particularly within the construction sector.
“With Brexit fast approaching, more European workers will be departing and demand for replacements will be boosted. Apprenticeship schemes will be vital to training the new workforce and addressing the ongoing skills gap within the industry, integral to ensuring the success of businesses.”