Fairbairn believes that the Government has the opportunity to create a 'once-in-a-generation revolution' in skills, but that it is currently only likely to deliver another 'once-in-an-administration shake-up'. 

Speaking to an audience of business leaders in the City of London, she said that firms are passionate about apprenticeships, and it’s this passion which drives deep frustration over the levy plans as they currently stand. 

She emphasised that the Government must take the time to draw on the vast experience businesses have to make sure that the levy works for everyone, rather than rushing out a poorly thought through plan.

The CBI is calling for: A stronger role for the new Institute for Apprenticeships – include measuring and managing the system around the levy – and greater flexibility in how firms can spend the levy – including on existing training and high-quality support for apprentices; 

Fairbairn believes the digital system which manages levy spend must be ready and able to support the delivery of apprenticeship training which businesses need, in full and from the start.