Lords debates bill on Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education

The aim of this government bill is to abolish the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) and transfer its statutory functions to the Secretary of State for Education, who in practice will defer these duties to the newly established Skills England.

Debate on the draft law

During second reading, members discussed the main issues in the bill and highlighted areas of concern where they believe amendments (changes) may be needed.

Members speaking

Baroness Smith of Malvern (Labour), Minister for Skills in the Department for Education, opened the debate and responded on behalf of the government.

Contributing members included:

• Lord Blunkett (Labour), former Education Secretary and member of the Policy Exchange's advisory board on apprenticeship reform
• Baroness Evans of Bowes Park (Conservative), former director and chief operating officer of the New Schools Network
• Baroness McGregor-Smith (Non-affiliated), chair of the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education
• Lord Storey (Liberal Democrats), patron of education, skills and social mobility charity, Career Connect.

Catch up

• Watch the debate on Parliament TV.
• Read the Lords Hansard transcript. 

Explore further information

Find out more about the bill in the House of Lords Library briefing.

Next steps