HC Deb 07 July 1999 vol 334 c571W
18. Mr. Bercow

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on measures to help the young unemployed in Wales. [88540]

Mr. Michael

Since the New Deal was launched across Wales in April 1998, there has been a 44 per cent. reduction in the number of 18–24 olds who have been unemployed for six months or more. During its first year the New Deal has helped 5,400 young people in Wales into sustained employment; 1,200 are undertaking full-time education or training and a similar number are gaining valuable work experience on the Environment Task Force and Voluntary Sector options.

From 1 July, these measures will be taken forward by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Employment in partnership with the National Assembly for Wales.