The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has welcomed the news that the exemption on national insurance for apprentices has been extended, saying the retail motor sector now has even more reason to fill skills gap.

The Chancellor used his Autumn statement to announce that the existing exemption on NI for apprentices under 21 has been extended to those aged under 25.

The government is hoping this will encourage businesses to hire more than three million apprentices during the next parliament.

CEO Steve Nash said: “The IMI is delighted that the government is continuing to get behind apprenticeships as a viable career route for young people.

“As new and used car sales continue to increase year on year, there is a very clear need for new talent into the sector and this new initiative is a great incentive for employers to invest in the future of skills in their businesses.

“Automotive apprentices can train in top class colleges and in cutting edge facilities and for a young apprentice in the motor industry there is the added advantage of earning while they learn. They can work towards one of 150 different job roles, in a well-paid, high tech industry without the worry of shackling themselves with student debt.

“With almost 94% of adults recognising the earning potential of the motor trade and the outstanding growth of car sales in the last year creating a wealth of new job opportunities, we believe that we can attract a whole new generation into the sector.”