Meeting of the Parliament 20 January 2026
I thank the member for her intervention and her engagement on these matters, not just at stage 2 but more generally. The Government has considered what more it can do through the bill, while also being mindful of ONS classification. We have constantly to strike a balance in that regard. I refer the member to the measures that we have taken on governance. I think that they are appropriate at this point, but I would be happy to engage further as we proceed.
As I and the previous minister have articulated, the bill is about making the system simpler and more efficient. It aims to provide a better experience for learners, whether they are retraining or are at the beginning of the pathway that they are undertaking, and, through that, reducing poverty and growing the economy.
We have included in the bill a number of measures that are important for our apprenticeship system—for example, putting it on a statutory footing to advance parity of esteem. Outwith the bill, we have undertaken work to continue the development of graduate apprenticeships, which have been mentioned throughout the stage 3 proceedings. A shift towards a more expansive approach to work-based learning will allow us to enhance all relevant opportunities, from school through to university.
We have also made significant progress on fair work, in particular through working with the Scottish Green Party—I am grateful to Ross Greer for all the engagement that we have had on those points. I refer to the changes that we have made in that space.
Importantly—I will finish on this, Deputy Presiding Officer—we have also considered the need for all staff involved to be part of the process of implementation, should Parliament pass the bill. Last week, I met with trade union representatives to hear their concerns, and we will have regular dialogue into the next stage. I expect public bodies to do the same. I give a reassurance that services for learners and employers will be maintained throughout the transition period and that there will be no erosion of support as changes are implemented.
At its heart, this bill—this journey—to transform Scotland’s education and skills landscape is not simply about processes or structures; it is about people, and the people whom we serve. The technological change that is coming will be profound, and we need to get our systems organised to meet the rapidly approaching challenges of the next quarter of the 21st century. The bill is an important step in that journey, and I ask Parliament to support the motion in my name.
I move,
That the Parliament agrees that the Tertiary Education and Training (Funding and Governance) (Scotland) Bill be passed.
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