UK launches youth jobs plan with training, work, or education for long-term unemployed, funded by dormant assets.

UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves has unveiled a youth guarantee to tackle long-term unemployment, offering paid work, apprenticeships, or education to young people aged 16 to 24 who’ve been on Universal Credit for 18 months without working or studying. The plan, funded by £132.5 million in dormant assets, includes job placements with skill development and may impose benefit sanctions on those who refuse suitable offers. It also prioritizes British-made ships and steel in government procurement and will fund libraries in 1,700 English primary schools. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced stricter immigration rules requiring English proficiency, clean records, and community service for permanent residency. The measures aim to boost workforce participation, support economic growth, and reinforce Labour’s focus on opportunity and accountability.