§ Mr. Barry Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Wales which Welsh employers have so far expressed an interest in the youth training scheme; which employers in Wales have committed places for young people; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsThe area offices of the Manpower Services Commission are currently having detailed discussions with a wide range of employers on the establishment of training places. Many programmes under the scheme are at an advanced stage of development. In addition, well over 500 inquiries have been received in Wales as a result of the youth training scheme national356W advertising campaign launched on 17 January. I understand that the commission is hopeful that it will secure a sufficient number of employer sponsors.
§ Mr. Barry Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Wales how many youth training scheme places he has so far guaranteed in Wales for young people in September; what is his target number of places for September in order to cover all available school leavers; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsThe Manpower Services Commission is not yet in a position to say how many youth training scheme places will be available in September. The scheme starts operation in April this year, and the aim of the commission is to secure around 25,000 places in its first year, expected to be sufficient for all school leavers. Within this provision an offer of a training place is guaranteed to all unemployed minimum age school leavers who leave school in the academic year ending 31 August 1983.