The government has distanced itself from two major commitments on apprenticeships that were set out in the Conservative Party’s 2017 general election manifesto.

In its response to the Commons Education Select Committee’s report on apprenticeships, the government pushed back on recommendations from MPs to introduce a “proper Ucas-style portal” for apprenticeships and also offer travel discounts for apprenticeships – both of which were pledges in the Conservative’s 2017 manifesto.

On the Ucas-style portal, the government said it has carried out “extensive research” with over 2,000 young people, colleges and careers advisers, and 86 per cent found their apprenticeship applications “easy” – although the report’s authors contended that a central source for information would be helpful.

As a result of its findings, the government said it will now focus on “ensuring young people have the right information on all their options, including on technical education and apprenticeships”.

It added: “We will keep under review the need for a centralised 16-plus application portal in the future as part of our work to simplify 16-plus courses and qualifications.”

'Clearly more needs to be done'

On apprenticeship travel discounts, the committee said ministers must stop “dragging their feet” on apprentice transport costs.

The government said it recognises that travel costs “can sometimes be a barrier to young people who want to start an apprenticeship” but made no commitments other than to say it will write to the committee in the coming weeks and continue working with the Department for Transport to find a solution.

Chair of the Commons Education Select Committee Robert Halfon said “clearly more needs to be done”.

“Our report highlighted how too many apprentices are being let down by a system that fails to deliver high-quality training and the support they need to get on in life.”

'Break down barriers'

He added: “Ensuring proper support for apprentices is crucial to delivering social justice. But there are no firm proposals from government on how to break down the barriers faced by too many young people who would like to take the apprenticeship route.

“The government continues to drag its feet on how it will reduce the cost of transport and it must now act on its manifesto commitment and deliver on the promise of significantly discounted bus and train fares.”

Mr Halfon has championed the cause of apprenticeship travel discounts, questioning skills minister Anne Milton and education secretary Damian Hinds on a number of occasions. In May, Mr Hinds refused to commit to the policy, despite it being in his party's manifesto.