§ Q40. Mr. Andrew F. Bennettasked the Prime Minister what measures Her Majesty's Government are taking to encourage pupils aged 16 to 18 years who would benefit from such an education to remain in full-time education.
§ The Prime MinisterIn the last three years there has been a welcome increase in the proportion of 16 to 18-year-olds who stay on in full-time education and who recognise the value of improving their qualifications. The Government have provided for additional expenditure of some £100 million in 1982–83 to assist this, and this support will be carried forward into later years. In May my right hon. Friend announced proposals for a new national pre-vocational qualification at 17-plus which is aimed at meeting the needs of young people who are not fully catered for by existing provision.