HC Deb 10 February 1969 vol 777 cc854-5
2. Mr. Marten

asked the Paymaster-General if she will make a statement on progress in dealing with the problems of youth.

Mrs. Hart

The important thing is to assess the needs. I have started by examining the material provided by the Youth Enquiry under Lord Longford; and I have also begun the practice of arranging to meet groups of young people in the course of my visits round the country, to hear what they want to say. But I must stress that I regard my responsibilities with regard to young people as being primarily an aspect of the more general question of participation.

Mr. Marten

As the Prime Minister told me in the House that the right hon. Lady was to concern herself with all aspects of youth—and I think that she will recall that statement—could she say, for example, how she divides her responsibilities with those of the Ministry of Education over student unrest?

Mrs. Hart

Particular questions relating to students within universities are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Science and for the university authorities, as was made clear in the debate in the House the week before last. I am concerned, however, with students as young people as distinct from their particular student rôle.

Mr. Patrick Jenkin

As the right hon. Lady regards this primarily as a matter for participation, will she accept from this side of the House that the form of participation which the people of this country want more than anything else is a General Election?

Mrs. Hart

I doubt whether the hon. Gentleman has had quite the experience of hearing from the young people that I have had so far. I find that young people generally are concerned to be regarded as people with rights and responsibilities and with respect for many of the ideals that they share in common.