NFDA: Associations still concerned about apprentice levy

The government has announced that employers paying the apprentice 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.

“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.

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.

“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.”