HC Deb 28 November 1972 vol 847 cc228-9
16. Mr. Golding

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will propose new fiscal measures designed to reduce unemployment.

Mr. Patrick Jenkin

No, Sir. Unemployment is responding well to the Government's massive reflationary measures.

Mr. Golding

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that "responding well" covers the fact that last month the total of longterm unemployed excluding school-leavers and students increased by 16,500? Will he say why the Government are taking so complacent an attitude towards the increase of long-term unemployment?

Mr. Jenkin

I deny that there has been anything complacent about the Government's attitude towards unemployment. We are entitled to point out that since last March, seasonally adjusted, unemployment has fallen by 123,000 bringing the seasonally-adjusted rate down from 3.9 per cent. to 3.3 per cent. in November. That represents solid progress.

Mr. Mudd

Is my hon. Friend aware that Falmouth has the dishonourable and outstanding achievement of having the highest rate of unemployment for any town of comparable size in Britain? Is it not entitled to a slightly better reply than that which he has given?

Mr. Jenkin

Detailed questions on unemployment in particular districts are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Employment. I will certainly draw his attention to what my hon. Friend has said.

Mr. Mudd

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. In the light of the totally unsatisfactory reply given by the Minister I wish to give notice that I will seek to raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.