§ Mr. Nellistasked the Under-Secretary of State for Employment how many young people have had reductions in benefit implemented because of their reluctance to participate in the youth training scheme; to what level that reduction has taken place; and on what date he decided to reject the recommendation of the Manpower Services Commission's youth task group report of April 1982 that a cardinal principle of the scheme should be that participation would be voluntary.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonParticipation in the youth training scheme is voluntary. However, as my right hon. Friend's statement to the House on 21 June 1982 [Official Report, Vol. 26, c. 21–23]—made clear, those who unreasonably refuse a suitable training place will, like adults, have their benefit reduced. Information on the number of reported refusals and premature terminations is not available at present.
§ Mr. Nellistasked the Under-Secretary of State for Employment if he will list those industries or work places where, through trade union negotiation, trainees on the youth training scheme are receiveing more than the stipulated £25 a week allowance; and in each case, if he will give the amount being received.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonI regret that the information is not available.