Training Allowances Scheme

HC Deb 13 February 1962 vol 653 cc141-2W

Mr. Prentice

asked the Minister of Labour how many allowances were awarded during 1961 under the Training Allowances Scheme to young people who have to live away from home in order to train for a skilled occupation

Mr. Hare

Allowances were awarded to 859 boys and 73 girls.

Mr. Prentice

asked the Minister of Labour what steps are taken by his Department to relate the allowances paid under the Training Allowances Scheme to the current costs of board and lodging for young people living away from home.

Mr. Hare

The rates of allowances are kept regularly under review with particular reference to current costs of board and lodging.

Mr. Prentice

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will make a statement on the steps taken to publicise the Training Allowances Scheme; and whether he will increase such publicity so that the scheme may make a greater contribution to the training of young workers.

Mr. Hare

The Youth Employment Service already brings the Scheme to the notice of young people, parents, schools and employers through posters, leaflets, talks and interviews. I doubt whether further publicity would be effective.

Mr. Prentice

asked the Minister of Labour what studies have been carried out in his Department into the needs of young workers living away from home to determine whether Her Majesty's Government should assist religious and other bodies to provide more hostels.

Mr. Hare

The policy under the Training Allowances Scheme is to assist individuals directly and not institutions. The financial needs of young workers are studied in determining these allowances.