Don't overlook adults' passion for learning

There has never been a stronger case for adult learning. Businesses that fail to develop their staff are twice as likely to collapse. Firms seeking to reposition themselves for the economic upturn need to invest in their staff's flexibility, responsiveness and skills. Industry must respond enthusiastically to the government's Train to Gain programme, which offers training to workers with few formal qualifications. In an ageing society it makes sense to support older adults to develop new skills, prolonging their working lives.