Press Release: Large rise in number of NEETs
New Government figures show the number of 16-24 year olds who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) has risen by 132,000 in the last five years.
Shadow Innovation, Universities and Skills Secretary David Willetts, who obtained the figures in a parliamentary question, said:
“These devastating figures reflect the rough deal on offer to so many of our young people. If, back in 1997, we had predicted a rise in the number of NEETs under Labour, we would not have been believed.
“The rise is vivid evidence of the deep problems in our education and training system. And it shows that young people are especially badly-placed to ride out the coming recession.
“People are dropping out once school finishes because they can’t find the right opportunities. From 18 onwards, the position is especially bad. The biggest growth in NEETs since 2003 has been among people in their early 20s - being NEET is no longer a teenage problem.
“That is why we need a big extension of practical vocational training for people who don’t want to go back to the classroom. We are committed to providing 100,000 more apprenticeship places than Labour, a £100 million NEETs Fund and much better careers information and advice. We can do much more to help young people at this difficult time.”
Notes to Editors
Full figures: Hansard, 3 November 2008, Col. 181W(http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200708/cmhansrd/cm081103/text/81103w0040.htm#08110419005876)
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