Unemployment

HC Deb 13 July 1981 vol 8 cc793-4

15. Dr. Roger Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what percentage of the total unemployment figures published for mid-June 1981 were categorised as being long-term unemployed; and what specific measures are being taken to reduce the number of such people.

Mr. Nicholas Edwards

In April 1981 22.2 per cent. of those registered as unemployed in Wales had been unemployed for over a year. The special programmes run by the Manpower Services Commission take account of this factor. Further measures are being considered, but the main answer must be to restore the health of the economy.

Dr. Thomas

Is the Minister aware of the close but distressing association between long-term unemployment and ill health affecting the whole of a family? By which methods does he hope to alleviate this nasty situation?

Mr. Edwards

I agree that there is some evidence that over a long period, usually some time after unemployment has initially developed, there is a correlation between ill health and high levels of unemployment which provides yet another reason for trying to tackle this problem. That is why the Government are currently considering further measures to help those who have been out of work for some time.

Mr. Speaker

Order. It is now 3.15 pm, the time when questions to the House of Commons Commission are due to be answered. I have, however, been notified that the hon. Member for West Stirlingshire (Mr. Canavan), who was due to ask the question, is not able to be present. I shall therefore continue with Welsh Questions.

Mr. Campbell-Savours

The Secretary of State referred to other measures that are being considered. Does he intend to support his right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Employment on the £700 million to £1,000 million package of help for young people, rumoured in the press at the weekend?

Mr. Edwards

I would not comment on detailed discussions that were taking place in Government about the most sensible way of proceeding. A large number of proposals are being put forward. We shall consider which are the best of them.