HC Deb 11 November 1971 vol 825 c1202
3. Mr. Arthur Davidson

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what are the unemployed figures for North-East Lancashire for October, 1971.

Mr. Dudley Smith

At 11th October, 7,815 people were registered as unemployed in the North-East Lancashire intermediate area, and the rate of unemployment was 3.8 per cent.

Mr. Davidson

These figures make depressing reading in that unemployment in this region has more than doubled in the past twelve months. Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind, in particular, one of the most troubling aspects of it, namely, that skilled workers are now unemployed for months on end and are leaving the area in search of work else-where, so that, if industry wants to come to the area in the future, it may be discouraged from doing so because of the absence of skilled workers? Will the hon. Gentleman look into this particular problem?

Mr. Smith

Yes, Sir; we are constantly looking into the problem. I know that there has been an increase, but at the moment the figure is roughly in line with the national percentage. I hope that the rate of increase will now tail off in this area, and, certainly, that the North-East Lancashire intermediate area will benefit from the already massive efforts directed there by the Government.

Mr. Fletcher-Cooke

In view of the disastrous decision to terminate on 1st January quotas on imported textiles, would my hon. Friend care to forecast what unemployment in this area is likely to be in January and February next year?

Mr. Smith

No, Sir. I do not give forecasts, and nor did the Opposition when they were in office. We are well aware of concern among people in the textile industry. My hon. Friend the Minister for Industry said quite recently that the fortunes of the industry are kept under constant review, and I am sure that if my hon. Friend has a word with the Minister for Industry he will be able to press his case further.