asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he has made any estimate of the number of participants in the young workers scheme who would not otherwise have found a job.

A preliminary survey conducted by officials of my Department suggests that approximately 10 per cent. of young people for whom employers are receiving payments under the young workers scheme are filling jobs which would not otherwise have existed if the scheme had not been introduced. This figure takes no account of the effect the scheme is designed to have on establishing realistic wage rates for young people and thereby creating additional employment opportunities.

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he is satisfied with the effectiveness of the young workers scheme; and what is its total annual cost.

My officials are carrying out a continuous survey to assess the effectiveness of the scheme in meeting its objectives. We are satisfied with the results so far. The estimated cost of the scheme in the current financial year is £59 million.