Plans to give local authorities more say over the education of young people and to streamline the adult skills system have received broad support, ministers have announced.

The Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills and the Department for Children, Schools and Families have published two documents.

The first, Raising Expectations: Enabling the System to Deliver – Summary of the Events and Written Responses summarises the responses to the 12-week consultation on the proposed machinery of government reforms.

The second, Raising Expectations: Enabling the System to Deliver – Update and Next Steps lays out the next steps following the consultation and answers some of the most frequently asked questions about the proposed new arrangements, including how the new Skills Funding Agency and Young People's Learning Agency will work together.

Bill Rammell, minister for lifelong learning, further and higher education, said: "We want everyone to have the opportunity to improve their skills, whether that is to get a job or get on at work.”

Schools minister Jim Knight added: “By giving funding directly to local authorities we are ensuring that all young people will get the education or training they need to get a good job and make the most of their talents.

"By 2010 every 16- and 17-year-old will have a vibrant and exciting menu of options from apprenticeships, to diplomas, A Levels and GCSEs. We are ensuring that young people can access the right qualifications and courses to fulfil their potential."

The responses to the consultation, which was launched in March, will continue to be taken into account throughout the reform process. These reforms will require legislation, which will be included in the Education and Skills Bill due to be published in draft later this year.