The leaders of the UK's four largest employer organisations have backed the government's £1bn Youth Contract, which aims to create job and learning opportunities for young people.

Leaders from the British Chambers of Commerce, the Confederation of British Industry, the British Retail Consortium, and the Federation of Small Businesses all support the initiative.

It follows a round-table discussion headed by deputy prime minister Nick Clegg, which also saw representatives from companies including Hilton Hotels and InterContinental Hotels Group attend.

Clegg said: "Supporting people into work is my priority for 2012 and helping young people get proper lasting jobs is especially important.

"The Youth Contract will make sure every unemployed young person starts earning or learning again before long term damage is done."

Details: www.dwp.gov.uk