Access to skills

The government has reached a partnership agreement with the TUC, employer body the CBI, and other organisations to promote access to skills, trade unions and advice for workers in government contracting services such as cleaning and security.

Procurement will be used to identify needed skills, ensure access to training, and monitor performance, while service providers will be encouraged to communicate information on trade unions to their employees.

Brendan Barber, TUC general secretary, said he looked forward to the same opportunities being opened up to the staff of contractors working in local government and the NHS.

www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/newsroom/news_releases/2008/080715_psf.aspx