§ 41. Mr. Brocklebank-Fowlerasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he is aware that unemployment in West Norfolk has increased threefold since January 1974; what further action he proposes to take to encourage the creation of new jobs in the area; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GoldingI am aware that unemployment in West Norfolk has increased threefold since January 1974. The reduction of unemployment in West Norfolk depends on our success in defeating inflation and regenerating industry. In the meantime, the special employment measures which my Department has introduced have already helped over 200 people in the West Norfolk area and will be further developed by the introduction this year of the youth opportunities programme and the special temporary employment programme.
I would appeal to local authorities, employers and others in West Norfolk to take full advantage of the finance that is currently available under the work experience programme and the Training Services Agency's training courses for unemployed young people. The Manpower Services Commission would also welcome proposals for projects under the new programme to which I have referred.