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Interest-free student loans and modern apprenticeships demonstrate the Labour government's commitment to students and young people, Hutt South MP Trevor Mallard and Labour Candidate for Rimutaka Chris Hipkins told students at WelTec's Petone campus today.

Trevor Mallard and Chris Hipkins today caught up with Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec) students and to talk about what Labour is doing for young people.

"Labour has shown its commitment to affordable education for students and their families by introducing interest-free student loans and setting limits on fee increases," Trevor Mallard and Chris Hipkins said.

"From next year it will also be easier for more students to receive a student allowance when the parental income threshold for student allowances is further increased, and the age at which parents' incomes are considered for an allowance are reduced.

"Labour has already reduced the average time it takes to pay back a student loan, and we want this to continue.

"We have also increased participation in industry training by introducing the Modern Apprenticeship Scheme.  This exceeded targets, with approximately 190,000 people involved in industry training in 2008.

"Continued investment will give many more students the opportunity to participate in apprenticeship schemes and industry training," said.

"Labour wants every New Zealander to have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

"This means everyone should be able to access quality public education of the highest standard, and a wide range of tertiary education."

Trevor Mallard and Chris Hipkins also visited WelTec's School of Hospitality and Tourism, which has recently been judged a Centre of Vocational Excellence - the first educational institute in New Zealand to receive this endorsement.

"Having a Centre of Vocational Excellence in our region is really something to be proud of," Trevor Mallard said.

"Students at the school are also performing well - five students took out top prizes at the WorldSkills regional event which was hosted by WelTec earlier this year

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