This paper promotes the adoption of the lifetime learning targets that form part of National Education and Training Targets (NETTS) for Lifetime Learning in the United Kingdom. Section 1 defines NETTs as goals for levels of participation in education and training. Section 2 considers the characteristics and current profile of adult learners. Section 3 identifies challenges to be overcome if there is to be a greater commitment to education and training, if individuals are to undertake more learning, and if current nonparticipants are to be attracted into education and training during adulthood. Employment issues considered include the priority given to training and development, investment in training for older workers, core and peripheral workers, and the self-employed. Issues are identified that affect participation in education and training of significant groups presently underrepresented in programs. The section concludes by identifying structural challenges relating to the provision of education and training: curricular/sectoral boundaries, student support, access to guidance, the qualifications jungle, access to assessment, and appropriately skilled staff. Section 4 describes current initiatives that seek to overcome the educational concerns and other difficulties in expanding learning activity. Section 5 outlines 10 steps for achievement of NETTs. Section 6 refines the issues identified into a set of general recommendations and a set of key short-term actions which should be taken by particular players. Contains 69 references. (YLB)