HC Deb 31 October 1983 vol 47 cc602-3
3. Mr. Ron Davies

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what percentage of places available on the youth training schemes in Wales during 1983–84 will be funded under mode A.

Mr. John Stradling Thomas

The Manpower Services Commission's assessment is that some 64 per cent. of the youth training scheme places available in Wales during 1983–84 will be funded under mode A.

Mr. Davies

Is the Minister aware of the widespread public concern at the prospect of abuse of the scheme by the private sector? Does he not recognise that some private sector sponsors will be motivated more by the desire to make profits than to provide worthwhile training? What steps will he be taking to ensure that there is adequate training of supervisors in the public sector and adequate monitoring of the youth training scheme in Wales?

Mr. Stradling Thomas

That has not been my experience, and I have visited a number of these schemes. Monitoring is a matter for the MSC, and it is carrying it out. I have been impressed by the enthusiastic cooperation of local authorities, employers and others in the promotion of the schemes, and especially the young people involved. My experience has been completely different from the hon. Gentleman's, but I should tell him that there is also a place for mode B schemes, and such schemes are being actively promoted.

Mr. Allan Rogers

Will the Minister investigate the practice of awarding youth training schemes to privately funded profit-making organisations in England rather than to worthy organisations, such as Rhondda Enterprise, in pursuance of youth employment in South Wales? When will the Government stop this bleeding of the public purse by private companies making profits? If the Minister wants information on this matter, I can give it to him.

Mr. Stradling Thomas

I welcome any information that the hon. Gentleman can give me. I repeat that enthusiastic co-operation is going on. I have not seen any suggestion, except in certain quarters of the press, that this is a cheap labour scheme. It is nothing of the sort.

Mr. Rogers

I did not say that.