§ 58. Mr. Hamlingasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether he will make a statement about the progress of the Young Volunteer Force.
§ Mr. Denis HowellSince the setting up of this scheme was announced on 14th November, 1967, I understand that the Foundation have been engaged in determining their general lines of approach, 59W for which purpose they have appointed an Advisory Council composed of people with experience in the field of voluntary social service, in setting up their headquarters, and in recruiting staff and planning their training. By the end of this month, the Foundation will have a staff of 19 young people and the first field team will have started its training. The Department of Education and Science, the Ministry of Health, the Home Office and the Ministry of Housing and Local Government, have issued a joint circular "Voluntary Community Service by Young People" which has led to an increase in requests to the Foundation for advice and help from local authorities and voluntary bodies. On Monday next the Prime Minister will hold a reception at 10, Downing Street to mark the inauguration of the Foundation and the commencement of its first field projects at Newport (Mon.), Newcastle, Derbyshire and Gloucestershire.