§ 53. Miss Burtonasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that a five-day Careers Festival was held recently in Coventry, aimed at giving senior children in Coventry schools an opportunity of learning about a wide range of occupations; and if he will make a statement concerning the steps which he is prepared to take to support and encourage such festivals.
§ Mr. WoodYes, Sir. Functions of this kind are held in many areas, with the support of the Youth Employment Ser- 370 vice, and I do not think that any special steps are required.
§ Miss BurtonDoes not the Parliamentary Secretary think that this was very valuable, since not only were parents invited, but young entrants into industry also came and gave their impressions? Further, is he aware that groups of careers were taken together, and that sessions were devoted to groups of careers or those linked together? Does not he think that that is particularly valuable?
§ Mr. WoodI think it is very valuable indeed, but there are various methods of doing this. It may be that some Youth Employment Committees may employ one and others another, but I think that the Careers Festival was probably a very valuable thing indeed.