HC Deb 02 February 1982 vol 17 cc113-4
2. Mr. Chapman

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what is his latest estimate of the number of females in employment in the United Kingdom; and how this figure compares with 10 years earlier.

The Minister of State, Department of Employment (Mr. Michael Alison)

The number of females in employment in the United Kingdom in September 1981 was 9,264,000. This compares with a figure of 8,790,000 in September 1971.

Mr. Chapman

In view of the increase in unemployment during the decade, and the fact that there has been a significant increase in the number of people wanting jobs, is not that increase of 500,000 a remarkable statistic? Does it not underline the changing pattern of employment in the United Kingdom and the fact that many more women want to start a job outside the home in industry or business? Will not that trend continue?

Mr. Alison

I am sure that trend will continue. It is a remarkable figure and reflects the growth of the service sector in the economy, where female labour is particularly attractive and effective.

Mr. Flannery

Is it not a fact that the sense of hopelessness as a result of Government policy has affected a large number of women who are not re-registering and being counted as being unemployed? Is it not also the case that a vast number of women want to work and would do so, except that Government policy does not allow them to? Are they not in absolute despair about it?

Mr. Alison

On the contrary, my answer proves exactly the reverse. Over the decade many more women have found jobs.

Mr. Stokes

In view of the large number of unemployed fathers supporting wives and young children, should not some women in well-paid jobs who are married to men examine their consciences and decide whether in certain circumstances they might give up their jobs?

Mr. Alison

I am glad that my hon. Friend added the rider that they are married to men. No doubt, if the wife was married to my hon. Friend, she would undoubtedly be persuaded to give up work. For the rest, it is by no means certain that the kind of jobs…largely part-time—in service industries that women might vacate would be suitable for or sought after by men.