John Key MP

National Party Leader

3 September 2008

National Party Leader John Key today underlined his commitment to a strong focus on education at the launch of a new billboard in Wellington that features National's policy for a Youth Guarantee.

It is the second in a series of billboards highlighting the issues that National believes matter to New Zealanders.

"Young people are a group I'm passionate about," says Mr Key. "They, more than anyone, will determine the future shape and prosperity of New Zealand, but the sad fact is that a growing number are failing to deliver on their potential."

"Far too many young people are not in education, training, or work - in fact, more than 25,000 aged 15 to 19. Far too many are leaving school with no qualifications. National is not prepared to write them off. Our youth are too important.

"The Youth Guarantee is based on National's expectation that all young people under the age of 18 should be in work, education, or training.

"The policy will provide a universal educational entitlement for all 16- and 17-year-olds. It will allow them to access, free of charge, a programme of educational study towards school-level qualifications at approved institutions.

"This entitlement will be on top of, not instead of, the education entitlements they have now.

"Most will remain at school, but some won't. They might get more out of their education at, for example, a polytechnic, a wananga, a private training establishment, or a combination of these options.

"The policy comes with obligations. Those not in work and who fail to take up the entitlement will get no state income support, although special circumstances will be taken into account.

"National believes the public is ready for a fresh start from a new government. This policy is part of that fresh start," says Mr Key.

Billboard:

ENDS

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