STRAW HEARS TEENAGERS' COMPLAINTS

MORE than 150 teenagers gathered in a nightclub yesterday to tell the
Home Secretary of their concerns about sex, drugs and police racism.

Jack Straw heard the group, which included teenage mothers and young
offenders, speak about career choices and lack of after-school
activities. In rap routines, dances, and drama sketches, the
participants, selected by youth groups across England, attacked the
Government for its misunderstanding of the younger generation.

Jane Amer, 18, who lives in a hostel, said: "I can't get a job because
employers are put off by my address. They assume I'm a drop-out and
lazy."

Mr Straw said he would act on the concerns expressed at the London
forum.