§ Mr. Gwitym JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment by reference to what costs to the trainee the youth training allowance is calculated; and when it was last increased.
§ Mr. McLoughlinThe minimum weekly allowances paid to young people on youth training are £29.50 for 16-year-olds and £35 for those who are 17 or older. The minimum allowance for 16-year-olds was last increased in July 1988; the £35 was set in April 1986.
Many trainees receive more than these minimum allowances because employers are encouraged to supplement payments to trainees. It is in their interests to do this because it helps them to recruit and retain trainees in whom they are investing quality training.
A young person who is living at home with their parents should find the allowance adequate for their needs. Young people who find the allowance to be insufficient may be able to obtain additional support by making a claim for income support.