§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Employment what representations he has received seeking provision for disabled school leavers in relation to the proposals"in the White Paper "A New Training Initiative"; what replies he has sent; what action he is taking; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TebbitI have received a number of representations about the provision for disabled young people in the new youth training scheme, including those from representatives of the Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation whom I met recently. I also note that the report of this House's Employment Committee recommends that 18-year-olds with special needs be included within the scope of the new scheme from its start.
The Government's White Paper makes it clear that the new scheme will encourage and promote the participation of all handicapped young people who can benefit from it, and the report of the Manpower Services Commission's task group also refers to meeting the special needs of the disabled. I am at present considering the task group's report and will announce the Government's conclusions as soon as possible this summer.