§ Mr. Arnoldasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will make a statement on preparations for the introduction of the youth training scheme.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonThere has been a most encouraging response from people wishing to provide places under the scheme. I am particularly pleased with the interest shown by employers. Some 95 per cent. of the total places required have now been identified. I expect a large number of schemes will be approved by area manpower boards in the next few weeks. Over 200,000 places have been approved, and some of these are already occupied by Easter school leavers.
§ Mr. Spearingasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will list in the Official Report each of the schemes in the youth training scheme so far approved in the London borough of Newham, together with the number of places provided and the mode of delivery.
§ Mr. Leightonasked the Secretary of State for Employment how many places have been approved in the London borough of Newham for the youth training scheme; how many of these are from Newham private companies; and if he expects to reach the target of 1,900 places in Newham in the autumn.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonTwo schemes have so far been approved by the area manpower board, one of which will provide 200 places under mode A and the other 60 places under mode B. Further schemes are expected to be approved shortly.
I am confident that sufficient places will be available under the scheme for young people in Newham, taking into account that, as has been the case in the past, many of them will travel across the borough's boundaries to take up offers.
§ Mr. Murphyasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will ensure that the views of participants are adequately considered by Her Majesty's Government as the youth training scheme develops.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonYes.