HC Deb 13 December 1977 vol 941 cc178-9W
31. Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will consider a scheme for the allocation of unemployed young people to employers in the public and private sectors on a percentage basis.

Mr. Golding

My right hon. Friend is always prepared to consider any suggestions my hon. Friend may have to alleviate unemployment amongst young people, but he has at present no plans to introduce such a scheme.

48. Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what representations he has received about the problem of youth unemployment.

Mr. Golding

The Government's concern with the level of youth unemployment is shared by many sections of the community, and my right hon. Friend frequently receives representations from individuals and organisations, including trade unions, employers' associations and youth organisations.

34. Mr. Ioan Evans

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will outline further measures to deal with the problem of youth unemployment.

Mr. Golding

My right hon. Friend announced on 29th June that the Government have asked the Manpower Services Commission to implement its proposals for the new youth opportunities programme. This programme will double the existing provision for unemployed young people and corresponds to the assessment of need made by the Manpower Services Commission. The new programme will draw together and build on existing schemes for young people. It will provide a range of work preparation, training and work experience opportunities in a flexible framework. Schemes will be run to fit the needs of individuals, with the purpose of improving their prospects of obtaining a satisfactory permanent job at the earliest possible moment.