Nuneaton’s MP Marcus Jones has welcomed the action taken by government to make it easier for employers to hire apprenticeships – making it possible for millions of youngsters to learn whilst earning.

In April 2015, the government abolished employer National Insurance contributions for virtually all employees aged under 21. This month, it went a step further by abolishing employer National Insurance contributions for virtually all apprentices aged under 25, as part of its commitment to increase opportunity for all young people and help reduce long-term youth unemployment.

Apprentices are already adding value in hundreds of thousands of workplaces across the country, with 7 out of 10 employers reporting that apprentices had directly improved the quality of their product or service.

Commenting, Marcus said: ‘The changes in National Insurance contributions reduces the cost of employing a young apprentice by over £500 a year on a salary of £12,000, and over £1,000 a year on a salary of £16,000. The change will apply to both existing employers with apprentices and those taking on a new apprentice.

‘Abolishing National Insurance contributions for this group will help us reach our commitment to 3 million apprenticeship starts by 2020, increasing opportunity for young people across the country.

‘There has never been a better time to hire an apprentice. I would encourage all local businesses here in Nuneaton to take advantage of this opportunity to start or expand their apprenticeship programme.’

For more information, businesses can call the National Apprenticeship Service on 08000 150 600. People searching for an apprenticeship can visit www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk.