§ Mr. David MarshallTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to tackle poverty in Scotland; and if he will make a statement. [2725]
§ Mr. ChisholmThe Government are committed to mounting a concerted attack against the multiple causes of social and economic decline. For many, the best path out of poverty is work, where it is appropriate. Our New Deal initiative will give young people opportunities to do440W so as part of our Welfare to Work programme. We also intend to provide help for people over the age of 25 who have been out of work for 2 years or more.
The Government's commitment is not restricted to those seeking work, but to all of the most deprived in our society. A significant way in which this is taken forward in areas with the worst concentrations of deprivation is through the multi-agency partnership approach to regeneration, established under Programme for Partnership, where comprehensive strategies are taken forward to improve the conditions in which local people live.