FUJITSU recently played host to Basingstoke MP Maria Miller at its offices in Jays Close, Viables.

She was there to talk to management, staff and one of the company’s apprentices, Joe Gray.

Mrs Miller was briefed by Fujitsu chairman Simon Blagden and members of his management team on latest developments in the company’s UK operations and how the company is continuing to invest in the local economy and workforce.

She also had the opportunity to meet some staff members and learn about what they do.

Mrs Miller was particularly pleased to have a chat with Joe Gray, as he is one of the apprentices employed at the company’s Basingstoke offices.

She heard from him about his enthusiasm for the Fujitsu apprenticeship scheme, which guarantees a permanent job to all those who complete their training.

Mrs Miller said: “It is great to see that Fujitsu has a flourishing apprenticeship scheme and to meet Joe, one of the bright motivated young people who are taking up this great opportunity.

“Apprenticeships are an important route into further education and employment and it is good news that the number of apprenticeships in Basingstoke has doubled since 2010 as a result of increased Government support for employers.”