§ Mr. Win GriffithsTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will make a statement on the measures he proposes to take to assist people receiving benefits to find appropriate employment. [448]
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§ Mr. Nicholas BrownToday, there are record numbers of people in work. Labour Market Statistics show that the number of unemployed people is below one million. But we must continue to help those who can work to move off benefit and into productive work.
The creation of the new Department and the Jobcentre Plus, launched later this year, are significant immediate steps. But we are also introducing a Welfare Reform Bill which will extend the scope and flexibility of our welfare to work programmes.