Almost one million young people in the UK are not in education, employment or training, according to new figures that have sparked accusations that Labour is "destroying" job opportunities for the young.
The Office for National Statistics estimated that 981,000 people aged 16 to 24 were classified as Neets (not in education, employment or training) between April and June. That figure is down by 30,000 compared with the first quarter of the year, but remains 30,000 higher than the same period a year ago.
Tories blame Labour policies
The Conservatives blamed Labour's national insurance increase for employers and the overhaul of workers' rights for the high numbers.
Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Helen Whately said: "Something has gone badly wrong for a generation of young people. The opportunities that previous generations took for granted are not there in the way they once were.
"Labour have destroyed job opportunities for young people with their Jobs Tax and employment red tape. That has put the brakes on businesses hiring young people, giving us the highest youth unemployment in over a decade and nearly a million young people out of education, employment, or training."
She added: "The Conservatives will back businesses to create jobs with tax cuts, boost apprenticeships, and reform welfare so young people are better off in work and we can get Britain working again."
Government responds
The total passed the one million mark earlier this year for the first time in more than a decade.
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said: "We are determined to turn the tide on the youth unemployment crisis, which has been years in the making with the number of young people not in education, employment or training rising by 248,000 between 2021 and 2024.
"These latest figures underline why we are addressing youth inactivity as a priority."
He added: "The Jobs Guarantee is already supporting those most in need with the first young people to be supported by the scheme now in work, and our wider £2.5 billion investment will help create almost a million opportunities to earn or learn. Further reform will follow the Milburn Review, which will report shortly."
Review calls for action
Former government minister Alan Milburn, who is leading a review on youth unemployment, described the figures as "a scar on this country".
He said: "Young people are desperate for an opportunity to learn or earn. Instead, we're creating a lost generation. They want to work – they just need a chance.
"My review will set out how that can be achieved so that young people get their futures back."
