Context
The MP noted a 25% increase in youth unemployment in Bromsgrove over the last two years and that 42% of employers have cut back on graduate recruitment.
Question
What assessment has been made with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of her Department's policies on levels of youth unemployment? Some 42% of employers have cut back on graduate recruitment, and across Bromsgrove and the villages there has been a 25% increase in youth unemployment over the last two years. With unemployment undoubtedly weighing heavily on the Chancellor's mind, does she regret the choices she has made and the impact that they are having on young people's futures?
Answer from Torsten Bell
UK employment levels are strong by historic and international standards. The hon. Member is right, though, to highlight a structural challenge when it comes to young people being out of work and, for that matter, education. That is why we have committed £2.5 billion over the next three years to the youth guarantee, helping to deliver up to 500,000 opportunities to earn and learn. The background to this is that employment is up 920,000 since the election. As I just said, there are structural challenges when it comes to youth unemployment. This Government are getting on with supporting young people. That is why this month will see the introduction of a £3,000 hiring bonus for firms that take on someone aged 18 to 24 who has been looking for work for six months.
Not addressed: Regret over choices made and their impact on young people's futures
How: We Are Getting On With Supporting Young People
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