HC Deb 06 December 1965 vol 722 cc16-7
31. Mr. Weatherill

asked the Minister of Labour what steps he proposes to take to strengthen the Youth Employment Service in its effort to obtain greater training skills for young people leaving school.

Mr. Gunter

I am at present considering the future development of the Youth Employment Service in the light of the Report I have received from a working party of the National Youth Employment Council. I hope to make a statement on the Report shortly.

Mr. Weatherill

Does the Minister think that the £3¾ million which we spend on this vital service is enough bearing in mind that we shall be wasting the vast sums of money spent on education unless we are sure that young people put their skills to the best possible use when they leave school?

Mr. Gunter

I am in full agreement with the hon. Member on the great importance of this matter. I am hoping that this House in the not-too-distant future, subject to what my right hon. Friend the Leader of the House has to say, will have an opportunity of having a good debate on the Working Party's Report, which I think is first-class.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

Is the Minister aware that in some areas there is great difficulty about young people going to training classes because of lack of transport? Will he give consideration to providing local authorities with funds in this respect, particularly in isolated areas?

Mr. Gunter

If my memory serves me aright, and speaking off the cuff, I think that that point is made in the Report.

Mr. van Straubenzee

While I welcome the statement which the Minister has made, may I ask if he will bear in mind the importance of giving information to young people about the range of skills available?

Mr. Gunter

Yes, indeed. That is why I want to push ahead as much as possible with the Youth Employment Service.