HC Deb 17 December 1970 vol 808 cc1536-7
4. Mr. Charles Morrison

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she will now make a statement on the future of the Youth Service.

Mrs. Thatcher

I am not yet ready to make a statement.

Mr. Morrison

I appreciate that my right hon. Friend wants plenty of time to consider her policy on this subject, but is she aware that there is a good deal of uncertainty in the youth service, particularly following the Youth Service Development Council Report last year? Could she give reassurances as soon as conceivably possible?

Mrs. Thatcher

I am happy to give those assurances.

Miss Lestor

As the report has been in her hands since she first went to the Department, and as it has been fully discussed in the country by people involved with the Youth Service, may I ask the right hon. Lady whether she realises—because the report contains a large number of recommendations, some of which are welcome by those in the youth sphere—the need for the Government to act urgently in this matter? Will she do her best to expedite a decision?

Mrs. Thatcher

I am certainly aware of that. I would only point out that the report has been in my hands for rather less time than it was in the hon. Lady's hands.