SNP's skills policy leaves a lot to be desired

4.58.23pm GMT Thu 28th Jan 2010

Speaking ahead of a debate on the Scottish Government’s skills strategy, Liberal Democrat Education spokesperson Margaret Smith said there are numerous holes in the SNP’s plans to build skills.

Commenting, Margaret Smith said:

“The Government have not revised their Skills Strategy since 2007.

“It was unfit for purpose then and it is unfit for purpose now. It doesn’t have measurable targets or a concrete explanation of how it will be achieved.

“Skills Development Scotland has been plagued by confusion, bureaucracy and expense. The Government have cut funding for Skills for Work courses and school-college partnerships.

“The Government need to come back to Parliament with a coherent Skills Strategy, for the good of all those who want to improve their skills.

“A Scotland with improved skills will be good for careers and the economy at large.”