HC Deb 22 April 1980 vol 983 cc76-7W
16. Mr. Hicks

asked the Secretary of State for Employment whether he has any further proposals to reduce youth unemployment in rural areas; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Jim Lester

As my right hon. Friend announced on 14 February 1980 we have agreed to the proposal of the Manpower Services Commission to increase the size of the youth opportunities programme from 210,000 entrants in 1979–80 to 250,000 to 260,000 entrants in 1980–81. This will enable the Commission to continue to operate under the programme its undertakings to unemployed school leavers and young people unemployed for 12 months or more. Both the YOP and the two undertakings will continue to cover both rural and urban areas and will make a major contribution to countering youth unemployment throughout the country.[Vol. 978, c. 1755–66.]

30. Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what are the prospects for youth employment in the autumn of the current year.

Mr. Jim Lester

The Government do not forecast future employment prospects for young people, although I recognise the seriousness of the present situation. That is why the Government have agreed to proposals from the Manpower Services Commission to expand the youth opportunities programme by 25 per cent. in 1980–81 and have renewed the undertakings to unemployed school leavers and the long-term young unemployed, that they will be offered places in the programme.