HC Deb 26 March 1998 vol 309 cc257-8W
16. Siobhain McDonagh

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what indications he has had from the pathfinder areas of the extent to which the new deal is helping young unemployed people into work or training. [34909]

Mr. Blunkett

It is, of course, early days for this ambitious undertaking, but I am encouraged by the impressive start to New Deal Pathfinders. Across the country we have already seen over 15,000 young people enter the Gateway, seen over 2,600 employer agreements signed and seen over 8,600 clients referred to unsubsidised jobs and over 4,900 referrals to the four New Deal options.

31. Mr. Miller

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the new deal in helping young unemployed people into work or training. [34926]

Mr. Andrew Smith

I am encouraged by the progress recorded in the New Deal Pathfinder areas so far. Across the country we have seen over 13,000 young people enter the Gateway and already there have been successful referrals to unsubsidised jobs and the four New Deal options. The Employment Service has developed, and is now implementing, a comprehensive evaluation strategy for New Deal. I look forward to the national implementation of New Deal from 6 April 1998.