HC Deb 10 May 1983 vol 42 cc728-9
20. Mr. Woolmer

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what was the total number of unemployed, including school leavers, in Yorkshire and Humberside at the latest available date; and what increase since May 1979 this figure represents.

Mr. Gummer

At April 1983 the number of unemployed claimants, including school leavers, and not seasonally adjusted, was 297,548 in the Yorkshire and Humberside region, an increase of 190,148 since May 1979.

Mr. Woolmer

Is the Minister aware that within that disgraceful total in Yorkshire, the Batley and Spen Valley textile areas have experienced an increase in unemployment of 260 per cent.? Does he claim that to be a success of Government economic policy? Why have the Government appointed, and been sending around the west midlands, a Minister with special responsibility, yet have allowed the Yorkshire region to go unnoticed in Government policy? Is that because the Government have written off Yorkshire and the north of England in the forthcoming election?

Mr. Gummer

The Government are looking forward to a very successful result in the general election generally and in the north of England in particular. The hon. Gentleman is, as usual, full of dire sadnesses about matters that are the result of the policies of many years—

Mr. Haffer

Four years.

Mr. Gummer

No, not just four years, but many years, during which this country has become uncompetitive. What is exciting in the hon. Gentleman's region, as he knows, is the total of new jobs that have been produced by Gent, Microvitech, Dewhursts, Lay-E-Zee, Magnum International and many others. He never mentions those when he recites his long list of misery and unhappiness.

Mr. Waller

Is my hon. Friend aware that recent surveys of industry in Yorkshire and Humberside show considerable optimism about the future in terms of growth in the economy and in orders? Is he further aware that there is a good take-up in the measures that the Government have introduced to encourage new technology, a sphere which offers the best hope for employment in the region?

Mr. Gummer

I am sure that my hon. Friend is right about the optimism, but he might have added that it is applicable only if there is a Conservative Government.