§ 29. Mr. Sheermanasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will take steps to provide appropriate education for the long-term unemployed.
§ Mr. BrookeResponsibility for making provision to meet the educational needs of the long-term unemployed rests largely with the local education authorities and much useful work is already being undertaken in this field. The Department is actively considering how the further development of such provision may best be encouraged.
§ 31. Ms. Clare Shortasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he is satisfied that adequate arrangements are being made by his Department to enable unemployed people to take advantage of the concession which permits them to study for up to 21 hours whilst drawing benefit; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir Keith JosephI agree that those unemployed who wish to study while seeking work should be able to take advantage of available opportunities. As the hon. Lady is aware, the Department last year invited all local education authorities to consider their further education provision for unemployed people under the 21 hours concession, and commissioned Youthaid to examine the use made of the concession. I am considering with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Social Services whether any further action is needed in the light of Youthaid's interim findings.