STRATFORD Tory MP Nadhim Zahawi has been named by David Cameron as his new adviser on apprenticeships.

The Prime Minister told the Commons the MP would help him to "make sure that we really work with businesses" to achieve three million new apprenticeships.

Mr Cameron said the target was "essential" and he believed the Government can achieve it as he stressed the importance of young people having the qualifications necessary to apply for an apprenticeship.

His comments came as Tory MP Stephen Metcalfe raised the issue during Prime Minister's Questions and urged Mr Cameron to "redouble his efforts" to meet the party's commitment to the figure.

The MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock said: "The Royal Society have identified the need for one million scientists, engineers and tech professionals by 2020. One way to bridge this skills gap is through an increase in high quality apprenticeships....however for every one place available 20 people apply.

Mr Cameron replied: "He is right. This three million target is essential and I believe we can achieve it. One of the ways we will achieve it is making sure that more of our young people have the qualifications necessary to apply for an apprenticeship.

"What many firms find is that lots of people apply, but when you knock out the people who haven't got a qualification in English and Maths the number comes right down.

"And I'm delighted to announce today that in terms of my adviser on apprenticeships to try and make sure that we really work with businesses to get this three million, the honourable member for Stratford-on-Avon is going to take the place of the member for Watford who has moved onto other things and he is going to help me, the member for Stratford, to make sure we get businesses to deliver on this agenda."

Mr Zahawi later tweeted that it was a "great honour" to have been asked by Mr Cameron to be his new adviser on apprenticeships.