Computeach is calling on the Government to support high-level IT skills training.

The company's chairman Karl Parkinson met with the Minister for Skills and Vocational Education Ivan Lewis at the Computeach head office in Dudley this week.

He stressed to the minister any new scheme to address IT skills shortages should not be limited to low level certification.

“At present there are many individuals in low paid and low level skill jobs who would benefit from the opportunity to access higher level ICT skills training and who would, with some financial assistance, fund their own training through vocational distance learning schemes,” Mr Parkinson said.

“We want to consult with government and Mr Lewis in order to increase the skills base to benefit the IT industry in the long term.”

Computeach believes that the recommended options, such as introducing tax credits, or making training programmes VAT-free will give individuals an incentive to improve their IT skills for lifelong learning.

The company, which has already had two Early Day Motions requesting support for higher level skills training in information and communications technology, has also received letters of support from Intellect and The Institution of Analysts and Programmers who believe that the industry should join forces to tackle the present skills shortages.