Tories tap into youth market for plumbers

Teenagers will be encouraged to become plumbers and electricians if the Tories return to power.

The Conservatives say less academic pupils should be set on an early path to vocational jobs.

Party leader Michael Howard claims it is time to "end the snobbery" over such work and wants pupils to start training from 14.

But he is likely to be opposed by teachers and parents who fear pupils being "pigeonholed" too soon.

Mr Howard unveiled the plan with shadow education secretary Tim Collins while launching their party's education manifesto for the next general election.

It follows research showing huge shortages of skilled plumbers, electricians, joiners and gas fitters, which have forced customers to pay crippling service charges.

Today Mr Howard attacked the "elitist perception" that academic study is "somehow nobler" than other callings.

He promised a new scheme of vocational grants for 14-16 year olds, allowing them to begin training for vocational jobs before their GCSEs.