SKILLS IN THE RETAIL SECTOR

That this House notes that the retail sector, as the largest private sector employer in the UK, employing 1 in 10 of the workforce, has created more new jobs in the last five years than any other sector; recognises that a skilled workforce is essential in maintaining the ongoing success of the retail sector, and that during a recession it is essential that retailers are supported in maintaining their investment in the skills of their workforce; and acknowledges the work of Skillsmart Retail, the Sector Skills Council for Retail, in working with retailers to invest in skills through its new National Skills Academy for Retail, the biggest network of retail skills shops in the UK.