A better trained workforce is a happier, more productive workforce

European firms, meanwhile, are offering greater training opportunities, leaving UK rivals behind, Amicus said, citing a survey by the Manufacturer magazine.

The poll found that the majority of British firms questioned said they offered adequate training.

But Amicus says skill shortages are worsening the plight of UK industry.

Gap

"This is evidence of a skills gap of a different kind - the one that exists between what employers think is enough skills training for their workforce and what is actually enough to create a competitive workforce," said Derek Simpson, general secretary of Amicus, which represents manufacturing employees.

"It's no coincidence that productivity levels are much higher in countries like France and Germany who provide much greater investment in skills and training.

"Without a similar commitment from employers in the UK our manufacturing industry will fall further behind."

Companies across Europe are having to rethink their employee relations amid increased competition from lower-cost producers such as China.

In Germany, firms such as carmaker Volkswagen are about to start talks with unions about how to revamp work practices and improve output.

Unions have already had to fight hard to limit job cuts at other producers such as DaimlerChrysler.

Tight

The problem facing many companies is how to meet the relatively high cost of training staff amid an environment of squeezed profits.

Amicus wants the government to make it compulsory for firms to invest in their workers, reintroducing a so-called "training levy."

That way it will be easier for them to find, and keep, the staff they need.

At present, 60% of manufacturing companies questioned said that their employees lacked the necessary skills.

However, only one in three of the firms said they provided apprenticeships for 16- to 24-year-olds.

Only 15% of all UK firms provide training for the entire workforce.

Amicus went on to say that the poor performance of UK industry is also "linked to low levels of skills and competence among UK managers and long working hours".