Tracy Brabin responds to news of ScreenSkills apprenticeship programme pilot

Tracy Brabin MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport,responding to the news of the ScreenSkills apprenticeship programme pilot, said:

"Labour and industry figures have been pointing out for some time that the Apprenticeship Levy isn't working for the creative industries.

"This will of course be a hugely exciting opportunity for 20 young people, but in an industry employing hundreds of thousands, more action is needed to tackle the sector's dire diversity record. We also need firmer commitments from the Government on the length of these apprenticeships, what qualifications will be provided, and how they will be made accessible to young people in towns and rural areas across the country.

"Labour will hold the government to account on its promises to ensure all young people have access to similar opportunities to pursue careers in our world leading arts and culture sectors."