To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps she plans to take to encourage self-employed tradesmen to take on apprentices.

Education is a devolved matter, and the response outlines the information for England only.

Small businesses are important to the economy and to apprenticeships. This government will transform the skills system by developing a Growth and Skills Levy so that opportunities, including apprenticeships, are available across the country and businesses of all sizes can meet their ambitions, fill their skills gaps and stimulate the economic growth that this country needs.