§ Mr. Terry Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will make a statement on the community programme.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonSince its introduction in October 1982, the community programme has proved a valuable scheme to help the long-term unemployed. Its progress has been much helped by the effects of sponsors who have organised projects to achieve the programme's objectives. At the end of June 120,000 people were employed on the scheme.
§ Lord James Douglas-Hamiltonasked the Secretary of State for Employment whether he is in a position to make a statement on whether builders will in future be allowed to tender for contracts under the community programme and whether the Manpower Services Commission has finally agreed the details.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonBuilders are able to tender for contracts under the community programme. However, the present arrangements provide little or no incentive for them to do so. The arrangements are under review by the Manpower Services Commission and, as I indicated in my 613W reply on 18 June, at column 26, and in subsequent correspondence on 5 July, I will write again as soon as the details are available.