§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the progress of the New Deal in Wales. [29429]
§ Mr. HainMy hon. Friend will be aware that the New Deal for 18–24 year olds has been operating in the West Wales Pathfinder Area since 5 January and the early indications are that young people and employers are embracing the programme enthusiastically. Around 1,000 young people have already been interviewed and West Wales businesses have pledged 750 jobs.
The response elsewhere in Wales, where the New Deal will commence on 6 April, has been equally encouraging. Even before our advertising campaign commenced on 15 February, a considerable degree of employer interest has been evident. I welcome this interest and look forward to their involvement in making the New Deal a success.