HC Deb 06 December 1994 vol 251 cc152-3W
Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans he has to assist women and to promote their training on their return to the labour market after having children.

Mr. Richards

The eligibility rules for training for work allow women returning to the labour market to enter the programme immediately provided that an individual has not been in the labour market for a continuous period of two years for domestic reasons.

The out of school childcare grant initiative is stimulating the childcare market in Wales for school-age children by pump-priming the setting up costs of after school and holiday arrangements.

The Welsh Office provides a grant to Chwarae Teg to assist its work in expanding the role of women in the workforce by raising awareness of equal opportunities and encouraging good practice by employers.

More generally, the consultation document, "People and Prosperity: A Challenge to Wales" has stimulated debate about developing the potential of women in the workforce. My right hon. Friend will shortly be publishing an action plan to follow up "People and Prosperity".

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