Mr Knight is touring British cities and promoting Backing Young Britain through a number of road shows, encouraging employers to give jobs to people aged 18 to 24.

Over 70 business bosses in Plymouth met at the Reel Cinema for a breakfast event, where Tim Campbell, winner of TV’s The Apprentice, gave a talk about his business venture.

Plymouth MP Linda Gilroy, said: “A4e are delivering some fantastic programmes in the city and I wanted the Minister to hear directly how unemployed people are being helped to find sustainable job opportunities through training, educational and work placement schemes being organised by A4e.”

The Minister told local A4e bosses he was very positive at the work being done across the region & especially Pathways to Work, said Paul Dingle.

Mr Knight met young people, and their families, and potential recruiters at the breakfast event in Plymouth including the armed forces and care sectors. The region has been a major beneficiary of the Future Jobs Fund, helping youngsters find internships, apprenticeships and work experiences.

Kevin Kelway, South West Media Coordinater for A4e, said: “We are really pleased that A4e was granted a brief meeting with the Minister to explain all the great things we are doing in Plymouth and across the rest of the West Country.”