Britons 'opt for beauty over skills'

Britons spend more on beauty treatments and cosmetic products than on acquiring a new skill, it has been claimed.

According to a report by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC), a body that began working in 2001, while Britons spend a total of £10,998 million on personal development, personal care spending is far higher at £20,612 million.

Although commissioned by the LSC, the survey was conducted by ICM.

"We need to let people know that if they spend a little more on education and if eligible for funding this could be a very low investment, they could actually afford more pampering sessions," said Chris banks, chairman of the LSC.

"It's another great incentive for everyone to improve their skills," he added.

The survey also found that when it comes to spending, personal development is also eclipsed by games and toys, upon which Britons spend a total of £16,079 million.