HC Deb 16 June 1988 vol 135 c212W
Sir John Biggs-Davison

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the Livewire scheme.

Mr. Viggers

Livewire is a United Kingdom-wide scheme which helps 16 to 25-year-olds develop their ideas for self-employment. The scheme's principal sponsor is Shell UK and in Northern Ireland the main local sponsor is theBelfast Telegraph; the scheme is administered locally by the action resource centre. This year 266 young people entered the competition in Northern Ireland, representing 8 per cent. of the United Kingdom total.

Northern Ireland participants have traditionally performed well in the United Kingdom competition; this year's grand final takes place on 28 June 1988.

I believe that Livewire is an excellent scheme which is highly valued in Northern Ireland and I congratulate the organisers. By helping young people obtain skilled advice and support the scheme encourages their interest in self-employment and provides an important focus for the development of tomorrow's entrepreneurs and small businesses.