§ Mr. MacleanTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will make a statement on progress made in introducing the Target 2000 programme of education and training for young people. [76457]
§ Mr. MudieOur manifesto commitment to get all young people on the road to a Level 2 qualification by the year 2000 is being taken forward by our Investing in Young People strategy. A key component of the strategy is the expansion of National Traineeships, as part of the reform of Youth Training. 28,000 people have now started National Traineeships, which build on the success of Modern Apprenticeships and are available in 46 sectors of industry and commerce. A target of 100,000 starts has been set for March 2000.
The strategy is wide ranging and includes piloting of an Education Maintenance Allowance in 12 areas, refocusing of the Careers Service on those most in need, expansion of the New Start strategy, and implementation of the Right to Time for Study legislation.
We expect to develop the strategy further in the light of the forthcoming Social Exclusion Unit report into young people not in education, employment or training.