That this House expresses deep concern at the sharp rise in youth unemployment in Wales; notes that the youth unemployment rate in Wales has increased to 16.3 per cent, with 32,800 young people currently unemployed; further notes that youth unemployment in Wales has risen significantly faster than elsewhere in the United Kingdom over the past year; recognises the long-term economic and social consequences of prolonged youth unemployment, including lower lifetime earnings, reduced productivity and poorer health outcomes; acknowledges concerns regarding the impact of skills shortages, reduced apprenticeship opportunities, rising housing costs and barriers to entering the workforce; further recognises the contribution that young people make to Wales's economy and communities; and calls on the UK Government and Welsh Government to work together to improve access to employment, training and apprenticeship opportunities, support economic growth and investment, and ensure that young people in Wales are able to build successful futures in their own communities.
