From April 2008 local authorities will assume overall responsibility for the quality of young people's IAG.

New information materials are being distributed to schools, colleges and partners teaching the first five Diplomas.

Many colleges have lost students since the government severely sharpened the focus of its funding on three priorities.

A new Youth Taskforce has been established at the Department for Children, Schools and Families to focus on delivering positive outcomes for young people.

Earlier this month Secretary of State for Skills John Denham launched a major push by Ministers and business leaders to encourage employers across the country to make the Skills Pledge.