§ Mr. Winnickasked the Prime Minister what has been the increase in unemployment in the Black Country area of the West Midlands since May 1979; what steps are to be taken to restore the unemployment position in the Black Country to that of May 1979; and if she will make a statement.
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§ The Prime MinisterIn the Black Country area of the West Midlands unemployment has increased by 75,498 since May 1979. Government policies have reduced inflation and interest rates, removed many rigidities in the labour market, and given extensive industrial support especially for new technologies and small firms. However, new jobs will be created only as firms develop and regain markets for goods and services with products which surpass those of our competitors in design, manufacture, quality, price, delivery and service.
The renewed success of firms such as Jaguar, whose workers have regained lost markets, most clearly demonstrates the path to success.