Lord Leitch Publishes Review of Long Term Skills Needs
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December 5th, 2006
Lord Leitch today published his final report, ‘Prosperity for all in the Global Economy: World Class Skills’, which examines the UK’s long-term skills needs. It sets out ambitious goals for 2020 which, if achieved, would make the UK a world leader in skills. The report recommends and sets out a far-reaching reform agenda.
Publishing the report, Lord Leitch said:
“In the 19th Century, the UK had the natural resources, the labour force and the inspiration to lead the world into the Industrial Revolution. Today, we are witnessing a different type of revolution. For developed countries that cannot compete on natural resources and low labour costs, success demands a more service-led economy and high value-added industry.
“In the 21st Century, our natural resource is our people - and their potential is both untapped and vast. Skills are the key to unlocking that potential. The prize for our country will be enormous - higher productivity, the creation of wealth and social justice.
“Without increased skills, we would condemn ourselves to a lingering decline in competitiveness, diminishing economic growth and a bleaker future for all. The case for action is compelling and urgent. Becoming a world leader on skills will enable the UK to compete with the best in the world. I am optimistic.”
The report is set against a background of economic strength and stability in the UK, with 14 years of unbroken growth and one of the highest employment rates in the developed world. The UK has significantly improved the skills base with rising school and college standards and strong growth in graduate numbers.
