HC Deb 09 April 1981 vol 2 cc1108-9
12. Mr. Dubs

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what further proposals he has to reduce the level of unemployment in Northern Ireland.

Mr. Adam Butler

A number of measures have already been taken to alleviate unemployment in Northern Ireland. I shall continue to pursue the Government's policy of promoting industrial development in the Province with my customary vigour.

Mr. Dubs

Will the Minister confirm that in some towns and areas of Northern Ireland the number of men unemployed is almost half the total? Unemployment is now so high that it is damaging the social fabric of many communities and his proposals are so feeble as to be contemptuous of a real social problem.

Mr. Butler

Unemployment in the Province is nearly twice as high as in Great Britain, which is why we have taken special measures in the Province to increase the youth opportunities programme and the short-term working compensation scheme, and to introduce a new scheme for the adult unemployed. The hon. Gentleman should study what we are doing.

Mr. Dickens

In the hope of encouraging more trade between Northern and Southern Ireland, and consequently creating more jobs, will my hon. Friend initiate talks between the Northern Ireland Development Agency and the Industrial Development Agency so that companies on both sides of the border can be included in the approved lists of both agencies?

Mr. Butler

That would not be appropriate. NIDA's job is to encourage inward investment in the Province, and it is making a success of that.

Mr. Pendry

Does the Minister accept that the only way to reduce unemployment in Northern Ireland is to have a coherent regional strategy that is designed to encourage investment and create jobs? Has he noted the strength of feeling among trade unionists in the Province during this week of action? Why is he doing so little to reduce unemployment?

Mr. Butler

The Government have a three-pronged strategy for the Province to improve employment prospects—encouraging established industries, building on small businesses and attracting inward investment. We are succeeding on all counts.