§ Mr. Nellistasked the Secretary of State for Employment how the figure of £25 allowance for trainees on youth training schemes was determined; what items that £25 is supposed to cover; when, and to what level, he next intends to increase it; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonIn determining the level of the trainee allowance, the Government took account of a number of factors, including the level of the existing allowance paid to young people on the youth opportunities programme and the need to ensure that maximum resources are available to meet training costs. The allowance is intended to meet trainees' normal travel and other expenses and to reflect the benefit of the training they receive.
The Government have no plans to review the allowance at present.