A BUDGET boost for vocational training is expected to encourage more fleet managers to become properly qualified and persuade company car drivers to invest in driver training. By the end of this year, it is hoped that new Individual Learning Accounts will be in place for employees to invest in training and qualify for discounts of up to 80% on specified courses.

A decision has yet to be made on the areas which will be targeted by the fund, but a Government spokesman said: 'Fleet manager training and driver training is vocational so it would qualify for a discount, although it has not been decided which areas will benefit from 80% discounts yet. The Government is making clear its commitment to life-long learning and the need to encourage it.'

The scheme will replace the current system of tax-relief for vocational training which Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown said was open to abuse, with some applicants using cash grants for flying and diving lessons.