To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what steps her Department is taking to reduce the level of youth unemployment; and if she will make a statement. (304063)

We have launched a number of targeted initiatives to tackle youth unemployment.

From next month, the young person’s guarantee will ensure all 18 to 24-year-olds on JSA will be guaranteed either the offer of a job, work-focused training or meaningful activity. They will then be required to take up one of these opportunities.

The Future Jobs Fund will create 150,000 jobs. Around 95,000 jobs have already been approved and some have already started.

But the Government can not prevent youth unemployment on our own. That is why we launched backing Young Britain and I am delighted to report that as a result over 330 employers are already pledging new opportunities for young people.