“It is positive to see that the government has released further details about the apprenticeship levy, but we are still concerned at the short timescale of the implementation”, said Sue Robinson, Director of the National Franchised Dealers Association which represents commercial vehicle and franchised car retailers across the UK.
The government has announced that employers paying the levy, which will apply to businesses with payroll bills of over £3 million, are expected to register for the digital service by January 2017. Further details about funding, government support, additional support for 16- to 18-year-olds, English and maths payments and eligibility rules are not due to be published until October 2016.
Robinson continued, “It is encouraging to see that the government shows support for training and development of young people, particularly in a period where skill shortages might represent an issue.
“We are also pleased to see that smaller businesses have been taken into consideration and will not have to pay the levy.
“Considering the extremely short timescale, we are disappointed to see that this has not been delayed. We will continue to lobby government to ensure changes are introduced smoothly and businesses can cope.”
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Gabriele Severini, NFDA Communications Officer Tel: 020 7307 3423 Mob: 07880 039 897 Press Office direct line: 020 7307 3422 Press Office fax: 020 7307 3406 Web: www.rmif.co.uk Email: Gabriele.severini@rmif.co.uk
The Retail Motor Industry represents the interests of operators in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man providing sales and services to motorists and businesses. The RMI has a formal association with the independent Scottish Motor Trade Association which represents the retail motor industry in Scotland.
