asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the current position of youth opportunities schemes in Dundee, in the light of the industrial dispute affecting the careers officers; and what action he has taken.

Since my answer to the hon. Member on 15 November—[Vol. 958, c. 390.]—a further 211 places in projects under the youth opportunities programme have been approved and a further 30 young people have been recruited to them.I am very hopeful that circumstances may now be favourable for an early settlement of the careers officers' dispute. ACAS is back in touch with both sides.