TWO million apprenticeships have been started since 2010, Business Secretary Vince Cable has revealed.

Official figures show in the full year 2013/14, there were a total of 440,400 apprenticeship starts.

That figure is down from 510,200 starts in 2012/13, and lower than the 520,600 starts in 2011/2012.

However, Dr Cable said reaching the two million landmark was testament to the Government's commitment to training schemes.

He added: "This isn't just about numbers.

"From space engineering, to TV production and legal services, apprenticeships are the ticket to a great job and a route employers trust to access the skills they need."

Dr Cable also announced 22 new apprenticeships, in professions such as civil engineering and health and social care, which have been designed by employers to meet industry needs.

Neil Carberry, CBI director for employment and skills, added: "Apprenticeships are an essential route to tackling youth unemployment and narrowing the UK's skills gap, and this milestone is testament to the thousands of employers who have taken on apprentices."