Milburn Review: Interim Report Debate

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Department: Department for Work and Pensions

Milburn Review: Interim Report

Maya Ellis Excerpts
Tuesday 2nd June 2026

(1 week, 3 days ago)

Commons Chamber
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Andrew Western Portrait Andrew Western
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I refer the hon. Member to the rest of paragraph 268, because his selective quoting does not cover all that was in there. It also says:

“the UK’s NEET crisis is much more long-term and deep-seated than any decisions taken in the last few years.”

Milburn is very clear that action is needed, that there are a range of reasons for that and that he will bring forward a set of recommendations on which he expects the Government to act. We await those and stand ready to act.

Maya Ellis Portrait Maya Ellis (Ribble Valley) (Lab)
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It is brilliant to see an example in the interim report of a young woman who taught herself Shopify in order to start a business. This Government have prioritised growth, which comes from innovation and entrepreneurship. Given that young people have incredible ideas and often thrive when they can direct their own destiny, rather than adapting to another company’s culture, does he agree that encouraging entrepreneurship among young people needs to be a significant part of the solution?

Andrew Western Portrait Andrew Western
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I absolutely agree with my hon. Friend, and I know that the Secretary of State is interested in what we can do to increase the support available to self-employed people of all ages.