§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Employment what is his estimate of the number of new jobs created in the Scottish economy in the past six months; and how many of these jobs were for men.
§ Mr. Harold WalkerNew jobs are created in the Scottish economy as a result of Government measures and other factors. However, it is not possible to calculate the exact effect, in terms of jobs, of any Government measures, with the exception of the job creation programme, which has been in operation since October 1975.
I am informed by the Manpower Services Commission that, up to 30th January, 161 projects had been approved in Scotland, providing 2,070 jobs, and that applications involving 630 further jobs are receiving attention. In line with the requirements of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 these jobs are open to both men and women.