asked the Secretary of State for Employment what guidance he has issued to local education authorities about their provision of a careers service; and whether he has any plans to alter it.

My right hon. Friend's current general guidance to local education authorities about the careers service is given in a memorandum issued jointly with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Wales in November 1980.I have asked officials to take urgent steps to bring the memorandum up to date. In particular, I see a need for greater emphasis on the importance of work with employers as a basis for sound, practical and realistic help to youngsters.