HC Deb 02 April 1998 vol 309 cc625-6W
Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales in what ways he expects local education authorities in Wales to participate in the New Deal. [36680]

Mr. Hain

Local Education Authorities are actively involved in the New Deal Strategic Partnerships established in all Employment Service Districts in Wales. These partnerships are planning the delivery of the New Deal for young people to meet the needs of local communities and will also have an important role in monitoring its implementation and in identifying and disseminating good practice.

The Local Education Authorities in Wales have been involved in considering the arrangements for the Full-time Training and Education Option and have been particularly helpful in bringing together the quality providers required to meet the needs of the more disadvantaged New Deal participants.

This is another example of how the New Deal is an advancement on previous Government schemes— partnership at every level, with each collaborator bringing their own expertise to the table to ensure that our young unemployed people get the high quality opportunities they deserve.