Government sources have cited challenges in aligning elements of the two papers as the reason for publication delay, although the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) is still saying publicly the green paper will be ready in the "New Year".
Charles Hendry, shadow minister for young people, this week tabled a written parliamentary question to the DfES to commit to a release date.
"From the original time frame of November, the date has been put back month after month, and there is now a real danger that this vital step forward could be pushed off the agenda completely," said Hendry.
"With a general election likely next spring, any further delays would make it impossible for actions proposed in the green paper to be implemented in this Parliament."
But The National Youth Agency's chief executive, Tom Wylie, said overlapping areas in the paper and the 14 to 19 agenda meant delays were expected.
"Aligning both papers is probably one reason for the hold-up, given the complexity we would expect if the green paper is to be as radical as we hope," he said.
"They'll move heaven and earth to get something out before the election, even if it's a bit weak. It doesn't trouble me yet."
The Institute of Career Guidance has written to the DfES demanding its review of careers guidance, scheduled for publication alongside the green paper.
A DfES spokesman would not be drawn on the definition of "New Year".
See Leader, p13.
