Burnham: UK must end ‘moral failure’ of Neets crisis

Andy Burnham has called the number of young people not in employment, education or training an “economic catastrophe and a moral failure”. He says the UK should invest in support and job opportunities for young people, arguing that the current benefits system often provides payments without helping them find work.

Almost one million young people are classed as NEET, according to the Office for National Statistics. The government plans to announce sector-specific jobs plans, including 22,400 annual apprenticeships for under-25s in accountancy, legal services and consultancy; plans for digital, technology and defence are also expected. Former minister Alan Milburn is due to report on the issue after the Budget, and has suggested redirecting some benefit spending towards employment, mental health and other support.