A Cumbrian college has given its support to Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak’s plans to get young people economically mobilised.

Lakes College principal Chris Nattress has spoken after the Summer Economic Update, dubbed the ‘mini-budget’, on Wednesday included a new £2bn scheme to create thousands of job placements for young people aged between 16-24 called ‘Kickstarts’, to get unemployed people into work.

It also featured new bonus payments for businesses hiring apprentices and trainees.

Mr Nattress said: “We welcome the Chancellor’s announcement of the investment in young people and support for employers to recruit young people into apprenticeships, traineeships, and jobs.

“Lakes College is committed to supporting people into work, upskilling and reskilling in preparation for employment. We always aim to make access to help, advice guidance and support as straightforward as possible and make sure employers and individuals find the information they need easily.

“As a community college, we recognise the impact COVID-19 is having in our local communities. Our focus on work-related skills and technical training and relationships with hundreds of employers mean we are very well equipped to provide the skills, quality of work and improved livelihoods for all.”

Cumbrian MP Tim Farron was downcast and said: “The measures do not go far enough to form a proper rescue package that is desperately required to save many local jobs and businesses, more wage support is needed.”