§ Mr. Spellerasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will seek to continue the early retirement provisions that exist under the job release scheme which runs until 31 March.
§ Mr. Jim LesterA decision about the future of the job release scheme will be made as part of the annual review of the special employment and training measures, which has not yet been completed. My right hon. Friend hopes to make an announcement about the scheme shortly.
§ Mr. Heddleasked the Secretary of State for Employment whether his Department's job release scheme is to be extended beyond the present expiry date of 31 March; and if he will make a statement generally on the future of other employment and training measures.
§ Mr. Jim LesterThe annual review of the special employment and training measures has not yet been completed. My right hon. Friend hopes to make an announcement about the future of the job release scheme and other measures shortly.