Minister for skills Matthew Hancock was in Norfolk and Suffolk today to meet young apprentices and dicsuss ways to close the skills gap.
Mr Hancock, West Suffolk MP responsible for further education and apprenticeships, spent time in Long Stratton, Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft during the visit.
He spoke with apprentices, ranging from trainee boatbuilders and engineers for the offshore industries to chefs and hotel managers, and met local business leaders who have long been stalwart supporters of apprentice schemes and the benefits they bring to the region.
After touring Great Yarmouth College this afternoon, Mr Hancock said: 'Great Yarmouth is a microcosm of the country; there's unemployment and a skills shortage side by side and it's the skills system that has to fill that gap.
'Here Great Yarmouth College has got the flexibility to deliver skills that are needed and has got strong links with local employers but there's always more than can be done.'
• See tomorrow's EDP for full coverage of the minister's visit.
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