§ 17. Mr. Haselhurstasked the Secretary of State for Employment what representations he has received about the future of the special temporary employment programme.
§ Mr. Jim LesterI have received various representations from organisations and scheme sponsors.
§ Mr. HaselhurstHas not the special temporary employment programme always had a dubious validity? Would it not be better to concentrate resources on the training of young people between the ages of 16 and 18 in the hope that they would either then get jobs or, benefiting from the experience, take up some of the vacant places in our polytechnics?
§ Mr. LesterI believe that the programme has a valuable contribution to make. We have concentrated the programme in areas with deep-seated problems. It is interesting that only 44 per cent. of the cases last year came from the ranks of long-term unemployed. I intend to improve on that.
§ Mr. Arthur DavidsonIs the Minister aware that the special temporary employment programme was of inestimable value in North-East Lancashire? It had the support of employers; it had the support of the trade unions. It undoubtedly helped to bring down unemployment and create jobs in that area. Will the Minister consider that in the light of the general 1292 plan to diminish the programme in intermediate areas?
§ Mr. LesterI do not promise that I will look at that question. I am sure that the hon. and learned Gentleman recognises the overall point that we are concentrating more places in areas where the need is greatest.
§ Mr. GoldingIt may be the case that effort is being concentrated where the need is greatest, but many areas, where the need is very great indeed, are being totally ignored. Young people over 19 in those areas will suffer very much in the coming winter as a result of the withdrawal of the special temporary employment programme.
§ Mr. LesterAs the hon. Member knows, all the schemes are reviewed annually. If what the hon. Gentleman says is true, it will show in next year's review.