§ Dr. Edmund Marshallasked the Secretary of State for Employment why the rate of remuneration paid in relation to the job creation scheme has not been increased in line with the recent increases in national insurance and welfare benefits.
§ Mr. Jim LesterPeople in employment supported by the special temporary employment programme are employees of scheme sponsors and are paid by them at the local rate for the job. Sponsors are reimbursed by the Manpower Services Commission in respect of wage costs142W plus employers' national insurance contributions subject to a maximum, currently £83 per week. This rate is received annually with effect from 1 July.
The allowance for the youth opportunities programme remains at £23.50 for 1981–82 because the programme is to be aimed at 16 to 17-year-olds and after careful consideration the Government believe this represents a significant lead over benefit rates for the age group.