The IMI's Policy Watch - May 2024

Policy Watch is an exclusive benefit for IMI members. This summary provides a glimpse into the key points. For the complete version, members are encouraged to access the full Policy Watch on the IMI's Community Forum, fostering a more in-depth exploration of relevant information within our community.

General Election

Automotive is a mainstay of UK economic and social infrastructure, however, without correctly maintained and repaired vehicles, supported by a sufficiently populated, diverse, qualified, and continuously trained workforce this fundamental is at serious risk.

The IMI believes that there is a clear opportunity for the next Government to learn from the past and provide the support and infrastructure that will ensure UK automotive remains a global leader, as well as give UK motorists and businesses confidence.

The IMI’s ‘Wish List’ for the next Government addresses each of the critical issues around automotive vacancy rates, skills, education, and new technologies in automotive.?

Skills Inquiry Report Launch with Policy Connect

Hear about the IMI’s panel involvement for the launch of Policy Connect’s Skills 2030 report, representing the interests of our members and the wider automotive sector. The report sets out eleven recommendations to deliver meaningful and lasting improvements in the skills system.

The full report can be found here Skills 2030 Report Launch | Policy Connect.

UCAS’ Points Plan for Apprenticeships

The university admissions body, UCAS, has unveiled plans to award UCAS points to level 3 apprenticeships starting this September. This initiative aims to align apprenticeships with A-levels, T Levels, and other level 3 qualifications, enhancing their visibility and ensuring fair access to higher education.

In this month’s full edition of Policy Watch for IMI members, find out more about what the new system would entail, and the proposed model.

Devolved Nations Updates

Northern Ireland

The Budget 2024-25 Executive Committee Business – in the Northern Ireland Assembly was debated at 2:45 pm on 28 May 2024. Hear about the discussion around funding, concerns as a result of Brexit, and calls for a long-term strategy for investment into skills.

Wales

Hefin David, a Labour representative, has raised the question of whether the Welsh Government will introduce job-coaching support in future employability and skills programs, including ReAct Plus and Communities for Work Plus. Hear more in this month’s Policy Watch.

Scotland

Graeme Dey of the SNP has considered the Scottish Funding Council’s advice and the practicalities of implementing changes within the Glasgow and Lanarkshire college regions, all within the context of broader reforms. During a debate, he emphasised the importance of listening to different perspectives and concerns during this process.

On the 16th May 2024, Graeme Dey confirmed to Parliament that he intends to undertake a formal consultation on the future of the Glasgow Colleges Regional Board and the Lanarkshire Board. His preferred option is to dissolve both boards. Further updates will follow as the consultation progresses.

English Education Updates

IFATE and DfE have notified awarding organisations that their activities are now restricted due to the pre-election period.? This includes the Post 16 qualification reforms, i.e.: - no notifications of the status of Cycle 1 Level 2 qualification approvals during this period, - and confirmation that Cycle 2 Level 3 of qualification reform will not proceed in this period.

Central Government Updates

Automated Vehicles Bill

Thankfully the bill received Royal ascent prior to parliamentary prorogation.

Lords Select Committee [HL]

The Industry and Regulators Committee was appointed to consider matters relating to industry, including the policies of His Majesty’s Government to promote industrial growth, skills and competitiveness, and to scrutinise the work of UK regulators. The committee, chaired by Baroness Taylor of Bolton, has launched an inquiry into skills policy, focusing in particular on apprenticeships and training in the context of the skills the UK economy needs for the future.

The Committee has now ceased activity, further news is not expected until the next government has formed.

DVSA

As of April 29, HGV owners will no longer receive printed MOT pass certificates, marking a shift towards digital documentation.

Hear how this will work in practice in this month’s full edition, available to IMI members.

The complete version of this month's Policy Watch is available for members on the IMI's Community Forum.