HC Deb 20 May 1985 vol 79 cc298-9W
Mr. Coombs

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what were the 15 largest categories of employment in the Swindon constituency in 1971, 1976, 1981 and in the latest available year; how many were employed in each category; and what percentage of the total work force these represent.

Mr. Alan Clark

The available information is for the Swindon jobcentre area and is as follows.

been unemployed for 12 months and more; and what has been the percentage increase in each case since the change in recording these figures;

(3) what is the total amount in (a) the United Kingdom, (b) the west midlands and (c) the black country area of the west midlands, who have been unemployed for 12 months and more; and what has been the percentage increase since the change in recording these figures.

Mr. Alan Clark

The following information is in the Library. Percentage increases are shown since 14 October 1982, when the unemployment count was first based on the numbers of claimants to benefit at unemployment benefit offices.

*Figures relate to the former Dudly and Sandwell, Wolverhampton and Walsall travel-to-work areas, as defined in 1978. Figures for the new travel-to-work areas will be available shortly.

† Figures are not available for those aged under 21.

‡ Comparisons since October 1982 are affected by the 1983 Budget measures which that certain older men, mainly over 60, no longer need to sign on at an unemployment benefit office in order to receive supplementary allowance or national insurance credits.

Mr. Winnick

asked the Secretary of State for Employment (1) if he will list the latest unemployment figures and percentages in each region and the percentage of those in each region who have been unemployed for 12 months and more;

(2) if he will set out the unemployment figures and percentage in each region in May 1979, May 1982 and May 1984 and, in each case, the percentage of those who have been unemployed for 12 months and more.

Mr. Alan Clark

I shall reply to the hon. Member as soon as possible.

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