HC Deb 17 November 1986 vol 105 cc299-300
9. Mr. Roy Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what are the latest unadjusted figures for unemployment in (a) Newport, (b) Gwent and (c) Wales; what were the equivalent figures in May 1979; and what has been the percentage increase in each case.

Mr. Nicholas Edwards

On 9 October 1986 the total numbers of unemployed claimants in the Newport travel-to-work area, Gwent and Wales were 12,833, 28,863 and 174,105 respectively. Unadjusted figures for 1979 are not available on a comparable basis.

Mr. Hughes

Is the Secretary of State satisfied that these figures are correct, bearing in mind the acknowledged errors that have taken place in recent months in respect of both Newport constituencies and, I understand, of his own constituency of Pembroke? Will he take into account, too, the observations of Gwent county council that there have been no fewer than 17 changes since 1979 in the way the jobless statistics have been compiled? Will the Government recognise at last that the fiddling of statistics does not create new jobs?

Mr. Edwards

I understand from the Department of Employment, which produces the statistics, that the statistics for Newport as a whole were correct, but that there was some error in the distribution between the two constituencies. I know of no error concerning my own constituency. I am sure that the hon. Gentleman will particularly welcome the recent decision by KME—Kyushu Matsushita Electric—to establish a new plant to make electric typewriters and printers in the Newport area, which will initially produce about 100 jobs, rising to over 300 jobs—another example of the positive developments that are now taking place everywhere in Wales.

Sir Raymond Gower

As Labour Members seem to think that many of the improvements in the figures are due to new forms of statistical information, will my right hon. Friend give details of new projects which may explain some of the recent demand for jobs?

Mr. Edwards

As a result of the system of selective financial assistance, which has been derided by Labour Members, there was an announcement only this morning of a new holiday airline in my hon. Friend's constituency, Inter European Airways, which is being set up to operate from Cardiff Rhoose airport. This project will provide 145 new jobs and is a welcome development.