HC Deb 12 March 1981 vol 1000 c375W
21. Mr. Dubs

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many young people in Northern Ireland are unemployed; how many have never had a job since leaving school; and how many are on youth opportunities programme schemes.

Mr. Adam Butler

On 12 February 1981, 9,071 young people under 18 were registered unemployed. This included 6,149 school leavers who have never had a job.

At present 6,123 people are participating in the youth opportunities programme. The places on this programme are being increased to 10,000 which will be of direct benefit to unemployed school leavers.