30. Mr. Gareth R. ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will make a statement on progress made under the new deal for young people in meeting the target of moving 250,000 young people into jobs. [103708]
§ Ms JowellWith over 169,000 young people having found jobs to the end of October 1999, the trend indicates that we will meet the manifesto commitment to move 250,000 young people into work under the New Deal for Young People. The success of the New Deal so far will be built on by extending further help with basic skills and personal presentation to young people who will benefit, particularly the most disadvantaged. The 60 per cent. cut in long-term youth unemployment since May 1997 is good news for our young people and for the prosperity of the country.