Skip to content


UK’s skills base will "lag behind" by 2020

Summary

The Leitch Review was commissioned by the Treasury to consider the UK’s long-term skills needs.

Despite improvements over the last decade in school standards and graduate numbers, the UK’s skills base is found lacking, holding back productivity, growth and social justice.

UK competitiveness is being affected by the rapidly changing global economy, as emerging economies such as India and China become more significant competitors in the international marketplace.

The Review finds that, unless action is taken, the UK’s skills base will still lag behind that of many comparator countries in 2020.

Found this story interesting?
Spread the news by clicking below to add it to your bookmarking service:

Law-Making Explained

This is an ad-hoc independent review commissioned by the Treasury.

How does it affect me?

If you are in employment or are an employer, or work in adult education and skills training, this affects you.

The Review finds that, as a result of low skills, the UK risks producing a generation cut off permanently from labour market opportunity.

Objectives for 2020 include:

  • 95% of adults to achieve the basic skills of functional literacy and numeracy
  • Over 90 % of adults qualified to at least Level 2
  • Employers, individuals and the Government sharing responsibility
  • Focus of development on economically valuable and demand-led skills

A potential benefit of at least £80bn over 30 years is estimated.

Have Your Say Now


Find out how to have your say