asked the Secretary of of State for Employment how many men and women, respectively, received training at skillcentres in 1974; and how many will be trained in 1975.

I am informed by the Manpower Services Commission that 17,030 men and 87 women completed TOPs courses at skillcentres in 1974. In addition, 4,243 people sponsored by their employer received training. Separate figures for men and women sponsored trainees are not available but the ratio is similar to that for TOPS trainees.It is estimated that about 19,900 TOPS trainees and 4,600 sponsored trainees will complete courses at skillcentres in 1975.

asked the Secretary of State for Employment whether all the courses at skillcentres are filled; if not, which are under subscribed.

I am informed by the Manpower Services Commission that 100 per cent. occupancy in all trades in skillcentres is not possible. Certain trades are more popular than others and there is also some regional variation in occupancy rates. Also, some time lag in filling places prematurely vacated by trainees is unavoidable. Except for welding and centre lathe turning the engineering courses are generally below the acceptable occupancy rate. Occupancy percent ages for trade groups are as follows: