Tories Scrap Funding For London's Biggest Job Fair

Waltham Forest Labour Group have have condemned the decision by London Councils Leaders Committee to withdraw funding for Skills London 2010, the careers and skills event for young people from across the Capital and South East. Attracting over 50,000 visitors, Skills London 2010 was intended showcase the range of opportunities available to young people including apprenticeships, education, training, employment, internships and other options. But the event has now been put at risk after Tory councils voted to scrap £400,000 of local authority funding for the event. Organisers London First will now look at funding options for the event, but cannot rule out cancelling.

Labour Cllr Clyde Loakes said:

"At this time of recession, when young people are finding it harder than ever to find work, it beggars belief that Tory councils would vote to withdraw funding that amounts to just £15,000 per council for the UK's foremost careers event. This would have been an effective and practical way for London's councils to work together to help young people into work or training. Instead of working to tackle the effects of the recession, London's Tories have chosen to do nothing.”

This is in stark contrast to Labour action and investment in Waltham Forest where the Labour led council has been working hard to make sure the Cathall Construction Skills Centre secured funding to continue training young people.

Labour Cllr Terry Wheeler said: “It is anticipated that in its first year over 3000 people will participate in training at the centre. Many of these will be unemployed and will improve their skills and chances in the job market. There is a shortage of construction and building workers in East London and this skills centre will help tackle that gap. ”

Labour boroughs supported this proposal unanimously and we will be exploring ways we can continue to contribute to the success of Skills London.