§ 3. Mr. Owenasked the Minister of Labour what steps are being taken to find employment for the growing number of young people in Ashington and Morpeth areas; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WhitelawThe total number of young people unemployed has fallen by a third in the past two months. Out of 503 summer school leavers, 17 remained unemployed on 10th December. Although school leavers in the area in 1962 are likely to be much the same in number as last year, I am glad to say that so far 50 per cent more young people have obtained apprenticeships than in 1961. The Youth Employment Service will continue to make every effort to find suitable jobs for all young people.
§ Mr. P. WilliamsWill my hon. Friend undertake to look carefully at the ques- 384 tion of the provision of finance for youth clubs run by voluntary bodies, for this is a means by which immediate help can be given in the way of providing employment or at least something worth while for young people to do?
§ Mr. WhitelawI have noted what my hon. Friend has said, but I am sure he will appreciate that this is largely a matter for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Education.