The UK’s economy will survive if staff are more educated and better trained because they can contribute more, a learning and development company says.

New time for training legislation is “crucial” in the current economic climate as employers need to develop and retain people with vital skills, according to World of Learning.

In June this year, the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills published a report regarding proposals for the right to time off for training.

Alison Church, the company’s senior conference and marketing manager, said learning and development is essential for both workers and employers.

“The long-term benefits of the investment result in highly trained and motivated staff for the business, which positively attributes to the overall profitability of the business,” she added.

According to the report, around 300,000 people a year will receive skills training as a result of legislation, which could be in place in 2010.

The World of Learning revealed in a recent survey 67 per cent of learning and development specialists feel legislation should be introduced to give employees time for learning.