§ 21. Bob SpinkTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what recent representations he has received on the impact of the new deal for young people on the level of economic inactivity among young people. [153193]
§ Mr. BrowneWe have received a number of representations from hon. Members, through Parliamentary Questions and correspondence.
I am happy to say that our new deal for young people programme has been hugely successful in helping to virtually eradicate long-term youth unemployment, helping more than 460,000 young people into work, including nearly 400 in the hon. Member's constituency.
Independent evaluation shows that the new deal has not only helped to increase youth employment, but has also benefited the economy to the tune of £500 million a year.