Solihull West and Shirley MP Neil Shastri-Hurst has backed new proposals aimed at making it easier for young people to take on summer jobs and gain valuable work experience.

The Conservative MP is supporting plans to give employers and young workers more flexibility over shift patterns, breaks and evening working hours, while maintaining protections for those in education and training.

The proposals form part of a wider Conservative campaign to "save the summer job".

Measures include removing permit requirements for businesses employing young people, lifting the current two-hour Sunday working limit for under-16s and allowing them to work until 9pm if they choose.

The move comes as youth employment among teenagers has fallen significantly in recent years.

A report by former Labour minister Alan Milburn found the proportion of 16 and 17-year-olds in work has dropped from 35 per cent in 2006 to 19 per cent today.

Under the proposed changes, 16 and 17-year-olds would have greater flexibility over when breaks are taken during shifts.

Those in full-time education or training could also work later on Fridays and Saturdays and without restrictions during school holidays.

Dr Shastri-Hurst said his own experience of a first job showed the benefits employment can bring to young people.

He said: "My first job was working behind the bar of my local pub, and I know first-hand the skills, confidence and experience a summer job can give a young person.

"We must make it easier for our local businesses to give young people that vital first step onto the career ladder.

"That's why we need more flexibility for young people about when they can work and take breaks, as well as scrapping needless red tape and permits that make it harder for businesses to give young people a chance."

Kate Nicholls, Chair of UK Hospitality, welcomed the proposals, saying: "60% of first jobs were in hospitality.

"We give so many young people their first step on the career ladder.

"These sensible reforms will remove unnecessary barriers for businesses and give young people the opportunity to learn new skills and gain the confidence that comes with a first job."

The proposals would require changes to current employment regulations and form part of wider Conservative plans aimed at increasing opportunities for young people entering the workforce.

To find out more about the campaign, click here.