§ Phil HopeTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how the results of the consultation of young people will be taken into cross-departmental policy making processes. [46327]
§ Mr. Ivan LewisWe have involved young people in many of the Department's initiatives including consulting pupils on the Education White Paper and engaging young people in the development of the Connexions Service. We are currently consulting them on our 14–19 proposals. Involving children and young people is an important part of the Department's commitment to understanding its customers and supporting better delivery of its policies and services. We will launch an action plan at the end of May, reflecting that commitment and the core principles on participation published by the Children and Young People's Unit in "Learning to Listen". We are putting in place a central point of advice as a focus for raising awareness, sharing practice and promoting the benefits of participation across the whole Department.