8. Statement by the Minister for Economy: The Young Person’s Guarantee

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 5:34 pm on 16 November 2021.

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Photo of Sam Rowlands Sam Rowlands Conservative 5:34, 16 November 2021

Thank you, Minister, for bringing forward today's statement. I certainly welcome the overall objectives of looking to get as many young people engaged with work, with self-employment, with training or education. So, I certainly welcome that. I also welcome the specific reference to seeking support for young people into entrepreneurship as well. It's fantastic that so many young people want to set up their own businesses, and that support should be within this guarantee to enable them to do that as best as possible.

Minister, you mentioned the cross-working nature of much of this work with other Government departments, and it's true, of course, that schools do play a significant part in not just the obvious educational attainment of pupils, but also an important role in encouraging young people to pursue the most appropriate route for them, whether that be work, further training or, indeed, into self-employment. I was surprised in your statement to not see a specific reference to the role that schools will play in delivering, or helping to deliver, this young person's guarantee. So, perhaps you could outline how you would see that relationship developing with schools to encourage young people to pursue the route that is most appropriate for them. Thank you.