Dragons’ Den star Theo Paphitis has urged Andy Burnham to make it easier for retailers to offer young people Saturday jobs amid growing concerns over youth unemployment.
The retail entrepreneur, whose empire includes lingerie brand Boux Avenue, stationery firm Ryman and homewares chain Robert Dyas, is the latest big name to call for action to stem the jobs crisis among young people.
Official figures show more than a million people aged 16 to 24 are classed as not in employment, education or training (NEETs).
Employers under pressure from higher minimum wages and national insurance contributions as well as soaring business rate bills and energy costs are struggling to hire more.
And a raft of new workers’ rights being implemented by Labour is adding to their difficulties.
