THE RESTART EFFECT AND THE RETURN TO FULL-TIME STABLE EMPLOYMENT

In this paper we use nonparametric and semiparametric estimation proce dures to analyse whether the restart programme in the UK has had any e ffect on reducing unemployment duration. The restart programme consist s of an interview of the long-term unemployed to counsel them on effec tive job search. The statistical results utilize experimental data in which a control group does not receive the restart interview. The resu lts show that the programme has had a significant effect (for the trea tment group) of reducing the duration of unemployment. However, if we distinguish between exits to 'any job' and to full-time jobs lasting a t least 3 months we find that the treatment group is no different from the control group in exits to 'stable jobs'.