The BPIF/GPMU Funding for Training Working Group has appointed The Electoral Reform Society to carry out the exercise, which involves asking print businesses to complete a questionnaire entitled "Time to decide on skills - and this means you".

Responses must be submitted by 28 April and the results will be published on 17 May. Should a "substantial number of employers" support the levy - the Working Group is proposing a rate of 0.2% of payroll - the Government would work with the BPIF and GPMU to give it statutory backing.

Both BPIF members and non-members are being surveyed, as any levy would apply to the industry as a whole. But the Federation has stressed it is taking a neutral stance until industry opinion has been established.

"The BPIF's National Council has deliberately opted not to make specific recommendation one way or another," said Ken Iddon, chairman of the Funding for Training Working Group and chief executive of NB Colour Print in Chorley.

"Since it is employers who have to face the consequences of skills shortages, they must determine how they wish to tackle them," Iddon added.

Companies with a proven track record in training, such as those with Investors in People accreditation, would be exempt, as would small businesses. And rebates would be paid to firms that train in line with industry priorities.

Should the consultation find in favour of the levy, a new body would be appointed by the Government to collect and manage the funds, all of which would be used entirely within the sector.