§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer to what extent the March unemployment figures are above those for June, 1970; and whaf action he has taken or intends taking to reduce these figures, in view of the continuing monthly rise since June, 1970.
§ Mr. HigginsThe number of wholly unemployed—excluding school leavers—on a seasonally adjusted basis has increased by 96,000 between 8th June, 1970, and 8th March, 1971. My right hon. Friend announced measures on 18th February to assist areas of high unemployment and I have no further statement to make at the present time.