WIREDGOV

Government ststement in response to the fair access to professions report

News Release issued by the COI News Distribution Service on 21 July 2009

The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) will respond to today’s report on behalf of the Government.

Pat McFadden, Minister for Business, Innovation and Skills, said:

“This report highlights a core part of the government's mission to enhance social mobility and to ensure that it is character, endeavour and talent that matter - not life chances at birth or access to the right social networks.

“As the report shows, progress has been made with standards in schools up and participation in higher education at record levels.

“The glass ceiling has been raised but the report is also right to say that there is much more to do. It gives a welcome and rigorous examination of where we have done well and where we have fallen short. We welcome this work which will help shape our future thinking.

“It will feed into the higher education framework planned for the autumn alongside a National Skills Strategy and other government work in the future.

“Our passion for enhancing opportunity and ambition is undiminished after 12 years in government. We share the aim of the report's authors - to enhance the life chances of every young person regardless of their background or income.”

Notes to Editors

1 The Panel on Fair Access to the Professions has published its final report. Lead by the Rt Hon. Alan Milburn its 18 panel members examined the barriers and pathways to reaching professions for all people - regardless of their background. The report was commissioned by the Prime Minister following the New Opportunities White Paper which examined the issue of social mobility and its importance for the economy and social justice, ensuring everyone has the chance to fulfill their potential and secure the jobs of the future. To see the full report visit: http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/strategy/work_areas/accessprofessions.aspx

2. Pat McFadden is available for media interviews. Please call Emma Griffiths at the BIS press office on 020 7215 5982.

Contacts:

BIS Press Office
NDS.BIS@coi.gsi.gov.uk