GOVERNMENT plans to change careers guidance for young people will lead to less face-to-face advice, according to Bolton West MP Julie Hilling.

Opposition MPs have successfully called for an opposition day debate to discuss the issue.

The Government aims to establish an all-age careers service by April, 2012.

The Education Bill places a new duty on schools to secure access to impartial, independent careers guidance for pupils aged 13 to 16. However there is no extra funding allocated to headteachers to carry this proposal out.

Labour initially backed the proposals for an allage careers service, however they insist ministers have failed to deliver on their commitments to young people.

Although the responsibility for careers services is being given to schools, the central funding previously given to local authorities of £200 million is not being transferred to the schools budget.

Ms Hilling said: “Careers guidance is vital for young people, particularly those from disadvantaged background, who often need additional motivation to fulfil their potential.

“Without adequate funding for this new service, I fear access to career services could become a postcode lottery.”