Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Euan Stainbank and Andrew Western

Monday 12th October 2026 Commons Chamber

[The Minister for Employment (Andrew Western)]

We are making strong progress expanding youth hubs across Great Britain, with delivery ahead of schedule, bringing the total number of youth hubs to 160. These hubs provide a single, community-based front door to joined-up employment, skills and wider support for young people. We continue to work closely with local authorities and partners to maintain momentum and support further expansion.

[Euan Stainbank]

In August, Falkirk became one of the first towns in Scotland to have a youth hub. Opened at the Falkirk campus of Forth Valley college—our primary local further education institute—it is visible evidence of our Labour Government’s investment in young people’s futures. Will the Minister join me on a visit to the youth hub and Forth Valley college, and will the Department re-engage with the Falkirk-based local training provider Powering Futures, whose model could deliver a preventive solution to youth unemployment but currently falls between the cracks of reserved and devolved competency?

[Andrew Western]

I thank my hon. Friend for his invitation and for highlighting the work of the Falkirk youth hub and its partners. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has met with Powering Futures and is aware of the issues that he raises. My hon. Friend has been relentless in seeking support for this organisation, and I hope that the Scottish Government will think again and consider supporting the good work of Powering Futures with funding.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Euan Stainbank and Andrew Western

Monday 9th March 2026 Commons Chamber

[Andrew Western]

Definitely—and soon.

[Euan Stainbank (Falkirk) (Lab)]

Powering Futures is a fantastic social enterprise based in Falkirk, and its oven-ready project will deliver at least £1.6 million in quantifiable social outcomes, including addressing youth unemployment in every local authority in Scotland. Funders have been identified, so will the Secretary of State meet me to discuss what support his Department may be able to offer Powering Futures?

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Euan Stainbank and Andrew Western

Monday 11th November 2024 Commons Chamber

[Euan Stainbank (Falkirk) (Lab)]

How many current Department employees cannot receive further sponsorship due to the previous Government’s changes to the skilled worker visa salary threshold?

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Andrew Western)]

My hon. Friend asks an important question and I will be delighted to follow up with him in writing.