§ Mr. DavidsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what assessment his Department has made of the effect the new deal has had on long-term unemployment. [13167]
§ Mr. Nicholas BrownThe positive effect of the new deal is confirmed by independent research carried out by the National Institute of Economic and Social Research. This found that, in the absence of new deal, long-term youth unemployment would be about twice as high as it now is.
The number of 18 to 24-year-olds unemployed for six months or more has fallen by over 70 per cent. in the last four years. Some of this improvement reflects the delivery of a strong and stable economy, but the new deal has 682W helped unmployment to fall even faster. The number of people of all ages unemployed for six months or more fell by 50 per cent. over the same period.
§ Mr. ClappisonTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, pursuant to his statement of 28 November, what plans he has (1) for the long-term unemployed to be employed in the national health service; [20277]
(2) for the Government to employ the long-term unemployed under his proposals. [20279]
§ Mr. Nicholas BrownThe intention is to offer participants a range of jobs from which to choose. Many employment placements will be with locally based intermediate labour market operators working mainly in the public and community sectors. Work in these areas will generally be of community benefit but in jobs which would otherwise not be economically viable. It is also hoped that the scheme will attract other employers. Clearly the range of jobs available will depend on the local labour market, but it is hoped that this will include opportunities in both the private and public sectors. Government Departments and the NHS will not be under any obligation to offer jobs to participants but will be free to do so.