To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what methodology was used to set the initial targets for the Train to Gain programme. (290269)

Initial Train to Gain targets were set out in the Learning and Skills Council's 2006 Annual Statement of Priorities. They were based on contributing to the PSA—public service agreement—target to reduce by at least 40 per cent. the number of adults in the workplace without a Level 2 or equivalent qualification by 2010, and an assessment of the Employer Training Pilots that preceded the start of the programme in April 2006. The assessment included the expected annual cost of the programme and the planned number of employers taking part per annum.

These targets have subsequently been updated in the LSC's 2007 Annual Statement of Priorities, and reflect the broader skills aim set out in the 2006 Leitch Review: to increase the proportion of adults holding Level 2 qualifications to 90 per cent. by 2020.

As Train to Gain is a demand-led programme, learner volumes and annual spend may differ from initial projections, depending on levels of employer demand. Regular reports are received from the LSC—Learning and Skills Council—in order to enable the Department to monitor ongoing levels of performance.

To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what representations his Department has received from (a) the Learning and Skills Council and (b) others on the adequacy of the Train to Gain programme; and when such representations were received. (291463)

The Department has regular and ongoing contact with the Learning and Skills Council regarding all aspects of Train to Gain delivery, and receive monthly performance reports and updated financial information.

The Department also receives frequent correspondence and other representations from colleges, employers, members of the public and other interested parties on a variety of skills policies including Train to Gain.