Government backs training for travel

THE Government is to unveil a dedicated training body for the travel and tourism industry early next year.

Speaking at a VisitBritain reception in London, minister for sport and tourism Richard Cabourn said the new Sector Skills Council would be the central plank of a policy to drive up hospitality standards in the UK. If given the green light as expected, it will begin work in April.

Seven similar councils already exist, operating for industries including retail and IT. They replaced the now-defunct National Training Organisations earlier this year.

Although the SSC’s have been praised by unions because of their heavy funding, some critics have argued they are too big to deliver targeted training.

However, Cabourn said: “It is bringing the industry together. We need to lift the skills base, giving transferable qualifications and getting young people excited about the profession.”

The SSC will consist of a board, including trade representatives, which will lobby training organisations to ensure they are providing the right courses and support the industry to make sure Government cash is used in the right way.