§ 50. Mr. Edward Evansasked the Minister of Labour how many persons, men and women, respectively, were on the unemployment register in Lowestoft at the latest convenient date; how many of these are disabled persons; and how the introduction of new industries into the area has affected the position.
§ Mr. WatkinsonOn 14th February last, 542 males and 78 females were registered as unemployed at the Lowestoft employment exchange, and on 21st February, 78 disabled males and eight disabled females were registered as unemployed and fit for employment under ordinary conditions. Unemployment in the area has fallen substantially in recent years, and the establishment of new industries has largely contributed to this. It is estimated that since 1947 about 2,000 additional jobs have been provided in this way.
§ Mr. SpeakerThere is rather a lot of conversation in the House. I think the hon. Member who asked the Question is entitled to hear the answer.
§ Mr. WatkinsonWith your leave, Mr. Speaker, I will read it again, although I am afraid it is rather a long answer.
§ Mr. EvansDoes the Minister regard this figure of over 600 unemployed, with a considerable number of disabled persons almost permanently unemployed, as satisfactory? In view of these figures, does he agree with the assertions which have been made in the area lately that the saturation point in new industries has been reached? Will he do all he can to try to stimulate the employment of disabled persons in that area?
§ Mr. WatkinsonYes. We are certainly doing what we can but, looking at comparative figures, I see that unemployment in the area has been halved since 1951.