Mr Johnson's report reveals public support for extending compulsory education and for the proposal that young people should stay in education or training until age 18.  The strongest support comes from older age groups generally, and regionally from the Yorkshire/Humberside region.  Those in the older age groups are most likely to link prolonged education to higher wages, with strong agreement from 75% of 55-64 year olds and 70% of those in the 65+ age group.  Two thirds of respondents (66%) agree that staying in education until 18 should be made a legal requirement, of which more women than men were for a change in legislation – 70% against 61% respectively. More than half of those in the 55-64  and 65+ age groups agree strongly that the Government should change the law. 
 
Mr Johnson highlighted some of the positive reasons for raising the education leaving age, including boosting society and the economy by helping to plug the skills gap. For individuals, gaining five GCSE's could add up to £200,000 in lifetime earnings.  They would also be less likely to use drugs, or become involved in prostitution or crime.  

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