§ Mr. Georgeasked the Secretary of State for Employment what percentage of the job creation projects are in the private sector; and if he will consider enlarging the role of private industry in the scheme so that greater job opportunities will be created.
§ Mr. Harold WalkerI am informed by the Manpower Services Commission that about 2 per cent. of projects funded under the Job Creation Programme are sponsored by private industry. As the last date for receiving applications for funding under the programme is 31st December 1977 it is too late to consider policy changes. However, the Commission is considering whether there could be a wider role for private industry in its new Special Temporary Employment Programme for unemployed adults, details of which will be announced shortly.