Starmer to face questions over reports that local Labour groups have been asked who could lead party into next election

Jacqui Smith , the skills minister, told the Today programme this morning that she felt “a certain element of frustration” about Labour Together surveying party members about the leadership. But the questions were part of “a very wide-ranging survey”, she said.

She said that, if anyone asked her, she would say she was supporting Keir Starmer because he was doing “a good job” and she said the government should focus on “the things that actually will make a difference for people”, like the new apprenticeships being announced today. (See 9.33am .)

The £725m package of reforms to the apprenticeship system will help to tackle youth unemployment and drive economic growth, with thousands more young people expected to benefit over the next three years.

The latest funding includes a £140m for a pilot where mayors will be able to connect young people – especially those not in education, employment or training (NEET) with thousands of apprenticeship opportunities at local employers.