In his first speech since joining the Cabinet, Mr Cable insisted he was committed to an "increased emphasis" on lifelong learning, underlining its importance for a strong, vibrant economy.

His announcement came amid government pledges to "refocus" £200m in Further Education.

David Grailey, chief executive of NCFE, one of the UK's leading awarding bodies, welcomed the government's commitment to the sector.

"Cable's optimism and personal attachment to the adult learning sector is very encouraging after what has been, and still is, a very turbulent time for all parties involved," said Mr Grailey.

"He clearly has a very emotional and personal link to this sector, and an increased emphasis and safeguarded budget for lifelong learning would be very welcome."

Mr Cable's passion for adult learning echoes comments made last month by John Hayes, Minister of State for Further Education, Lifelong Learning and Skills.

Also speaking in his first official speech since joining the Tory-Lib coalition, Mr Hayes told a conference organised by NIACE, the non-government body for lifelong learning, that adult education is an essential component of our education system.

"I say plainly that adult learning is a cause which I have upheld throughout my whole career in Parliament that I hold close to my heart, for which I argued passionately in opposition, and with equal passion will champion in government," said Mr Hayes.

However, Mr Grailey believes more progress and clarity is needed in the financially threatened sector.

"Learning brings with it so many social benefits and can provide the foundations upon which to rebuild a stable economy and develop sustainable communities," he said.

"However the further education sector as a whole needs much more than for ministers to pay yet more lip service to its current difficulties. What we need is clarity and a defined way forward so that the FE sector can ensure the best for its learners and institutions and facilitate the process of getting the economy back on track."

Jason Rainbow

(Pictured: David Grailey, chief executive of NCFE)