YESTERDAY’S announcement of a policy pledge from Labour to tackle youth unemployment by challenging young jobseekers to obtain better qualifications and training will strike a chord with many, not least those seeking work.

It is of little use wringing hands over job prospects if those seeking work are unable to find jobs through lack of skills.

The proposal is to remove Jobseeker’s Allowance for some of those seeking employment if they do not undertake skills training.

Again, this would seem a policy worth exploring. Reminding young jobseekers they have their part to play in finding employment by hitting them in the pocket is a tough message but one that will carry weight with many.

Certainly, there have been arguments that skilled migrants coming to the UK find desperate employers waiting with welcoming arms wide open.

The Tories do not appear to be questioning the merits of the principle behind the policy, but do question where the extra money they say will be needed to fund it will be found.

We can expect much debate on the issue then in the run up to next year’s General Election, and this is to be welcomed.

Finding skilled work for the next generation is essential if we are all to reap the benefits.