§ 1. Mr. Ray Powellasked the Secretary of State for Wales what is the current total number of unemployed 2 persons registered in (a) the Ogmore constituency, (b) the Mid-Glamorgan area and (c) Wales; and how these figures have increased or decreased since 8 July.
§ The Secretary of State for Wales (Mr. Nicholas Edwards)On 9 September 1982 the figures were 6,496, 36,164 and 185,611, respectively, an increase of 147, 1,473 and 10,319 since 8 July 1982.
§ Mr. PowellIs not the Secretary of State disgusted with his Government for increasing unemployment in Wales? Is he aware that in Ogmore there are only 170 vacancies for the 7,500 unemployed? While Parliament has had its feet up for the past two and a half months, unemployment in my area has escalated. Factories are closing—
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. The hon. Gentleman must ask a question. I appeal to hon. Members to ask only one supplementary question, which will enable us to deal with all Welsh questions.
§ Mr. PowellWill the Secretary of State ensure that a new mine is provided at Margam to alleviate unemployment in that area?
§ Mr. EdwardsI deplore the fact that during the period in question unemployment has risen throughout the industrial world. The improvement in Britain's inflation rate and our improved competitiveness give hope for the future. I note that during the recess the Opposition put forward few constructive suggestions.
§ Mr. HoosonCan my right hon. Friend estimate the effect that the nationalisation of 25 top companies, as envisaged in the Labour programme for 1982, will have on unemployment in Wales?
§ Mr. EdwardsIt is clear that our nationalised industries are problem centres for both unemployment and financial matters. There is little optimism on that front.
§ Mr. ColemanIs the Secretary of State aware that unemployment in Wales has reached an all-time record and is a cause of concern for everyone in Wales? Is he aware that the Lord Bishop of Llandaff has written to hon. Members advocating an increase in unemployment benefit? Will he support that request in the Cabinet?
§ Mr. EdwardsWe all share the concern about unemployment, which is why the Government are spending a substantial sum—about £1.7 billion—on measures to alleviate the problem.