Delivering a step-change in participation and achievement It will be important to have clear lines of accountability for delivering improvements and making progress. We will expect the new Learning and Skills Council to give high priority to adult basic skills. Local Learning and Skills Councils will set clear objectives and participation and achievement targets, reflecting advice from the Lifelong Learning Partnerships. The UfI will also have a key role in the promotion, co-ordination and delivery of basic skills provision to learners. UfI will be launched in Autumn 2000. 'A Fresh Start' recommended a continuous high profile promotion campaign. The Government accepts the need to promote basic skills learning to different groups of learners at the right time, and in a way which reflects their needs and interests. Maths Year 2000, the launch of the UfI next Autumn, and the expansion of digital television will provide excellent promotional and learning opportunities in the year ahead. We will continue to review and revise these measures in the light of progress. "Employers are keenly aware of the importance of individuals’ basic literacy and numeracy – not only are these the bedrock on which employability is built but they are also vital to achieving fulfilment in all areas of life. This is why we have strongly supported the Government’s National Literacy and Numeracy strategies for schools. However, we also recognise the difficulties faced by those with poor basic skills who are or wish to be active in the workforce. Solutions here may be more difficult to apply but, with a concerted push from all stakeholders, we are confident that we can bring about a step change in Britain’s levels of literacy and numeracy." John Cridland – Director of Human Resources Policy Confederation of British Industry

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