§ 9. Mr. HurstIf he will make a statement on the employment opportunities the tourist industry will be able to offer under the welfare-to-work programme. [13435]
§ Mr. Tom ClarkeTourism, with its enormous potential for employment generation, is well placed to play a key role in the new deal/welfare-to-work programme. Almost 50 leading employers and trade bodies in tourism, hospitality and leisure have already indicated strong interest in the programme.
§ Mr. HurstWhat steps are the Government taking to encourage the active participation of the industry in the welfare-to-work programme?
§ Mr. ClarkeThe Government are preparing to take a number of steps, including a conference on 24 November, organised by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State and involving the Department for Education and Employment and the British Hospitality Association, to consider these matters. Almost 50 employers and trade bodies have expressed an interest in working with the Department to achieve that objective.