HC Deb 08 December 1986 vol 107 cc14-5W
Mr. McCrindle

asked the Paymaster General how many long-term unemployed people have been (a) invited to interviews and (b) attended interviews as part of the Government's restart programme; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Lee

The latest figures available are that by 13 November 1986, 729,635 long-term unemployed people had been invited to a counselling interview as part of the restart programme. 582,386 have so far been counselled as some of the invitations relate to interviews due to take place after 13 November 1986. Of those who attended, 90 per cent. were offered the chance to apply for a job, training or other suitable opportunity.