The Smith Group has published a report looking at ways of improving support for young people at most risk of long-term unemployment.

Liam McArthur MSPThis is the latest report to show that youth unemployment is a real challenge in Scotland. Scottish Liberal Democrats want to support young people by stopping the SNP's cut to college funding which threatens student places and college courses.

Scottish Liberal Democrat Education spokesperson Liam McArthur MSP said:

“Young people in Scotland face big challenges. Recent unemployment figures showed that 8% of young people are out of work.

“This latest report is right to highlight the tough challenges that young people face, a situation made worse by the SNP government’s decision to cut college budgets by £40 million.

“If young Scots are to get the opportunities they deserve, to gain the skills to get up and get on in life, Minsters must re-think these cuts.

“Scottish Liberal Democrats have argued for some of the £67million of extra money the SNP Government recently received from the UK Government to address this shortfall for our colleges.

“The Scottish Government was not expecting this money, but must use it wisely. That is why a proportion must be used to reverse the SNP’s college cuts.

“The college sector and young people need a sign from this government that it is valued and not expendable.”