§ Sir Phillip Hollandasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will list the functions of the National Youth Bureau and the proposed National Youth Advisory Council; if he will define the category "youth" in this context in terms of age; and whether he proposes to establish a council to advise on the special problems and needs of those whose ages are above the maximum age of youth.
§ Mr. BrookeThe functions of the National Youth Bureau are prescribed in an explanatory note to the charitable scheme under which the bureau was established. I am sending a copy to my hon. Friend. Consideration is currently being given to the recent review of the role of the bureau by Mr. Geoffrey Cockerill CB, a copy of which is in the Library of the House. Detailed terms of reference for the proposed advisory body have yet to be announced but, as indicated in my right hon. Friend's statement on 11 July at columns 1035–1036, its general purpose will be to offer advice on the scope and role of the youth service having regard to the resources available. The age range for which the youth service may appropriately provide is not prescribed in legislation and the Government believe this should remain a matter for decision by the local authorities and voluntary organisations concerned.