HC Deb 26 January 1961 vol 633 cc337-8
42. Mr. W. Hamilton

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that National Service is now coming to an end, he will now consider the formation of a youth service for overseas help, which would enable the youths of the United Kingdom to direct their energies to useful and constructively peaceful purposes.

The Prime Minister

The end of National Service was one of the factors which led 'the Albemarle Committee to propose a major expansion in the Youth Service. The Government accepted its main recommendations, and energetic measures are being taken to develop the Youth Service in this country for young people between the ages of 14 and 20. The Government recognise the value of providing opportunities for constructive and useful service overseas on the part of young people, particularly in the Commonwealth, but they consider that over most of the field this can best be achieved through the voluntary agencies.

Mr. Hamilton

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, so far as I know, this proposal originated from President Kennedy and that it would seem to be an extremely valuable subject to take up with the new President when the right hon. Gentleman meets him? Is he not aware that there is a considerable desire among our youth to get rid of excess energy and that this would seem to be a very imaginative proposal by which they could do so?

The Prime Minister

I am obliged to the hon. Gentleman for calling my attention to this matter. Perhaps what has been said today will help to serve what he and I regard as a good purpose. I am glad that the hon. Member has tabled the Question.

Mrs. White

Does not the right hon. Gentleman realise that the United States do a great deal more to encourage their young people than the Government do to encourage British young people to serve overseas, and that the Government have turned down a request for help from the main organisation concerned with this matter?

The Prime Minister

No, Sir. I think that the main organisation which we have tried to help is called the Voluntary Service Overseas and that that is the organisation which is the most useful one for the purpose.