HC Deb 03 May 1983 vol 42 cc14-5W
Mr. Craigen

asked the Secretary of State for Employment how many of the 54 area manpower boards responsible for the youth training scheme have met since they were constituted.

Mr. Peter Morrison

Fifty of the boards have met so far. The remaining four will hold their inaugural meetings in May.

Mr. Craigen

asked the Secretary of State fir Employment what consultation is taking place between the Manpower Services Commission large companies unit and area manpower boards over the introduction of agreements on youth training schemes; and whether the cost of those schemes negotiated nationally is being apportioned on an area board basis.

Mr. Peter Morrison

The large companies unit consults Manpower Services Commission area offices on all proposed schemes. Responsibility for approving schemes negotiated at national level rests, however, with the youth training board, not 'with area manpower boards. The cost of such schemes is apportioned on an area basis.

Mr. Craigen

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what consultation exists between the Manpower Services Commission large companies unit and appropriate trade unions over the introduction of youth training schemes.

Mr. Peter Morrison

When negotiating schemes centrally, the large companies unit deals with the potential managing agent or sponsor. The unit seeks evidence from the managing agent or sponsor as to whether it has the support of the recognised and appropriate trade unions. Any contact with the appropriate union is made through the managing agent or sponsor.