HC Deb 11 February 1964 vol 689 cc49-50W
The Earl of Dalkeith

asked the Minister of Labour what were the average unemployment figures for Scotland from 1951 to 1963, inclusive, shown as a percentage of the working population; and what Information he has received through the International Labour Office of the corresponding figures for Denmark, Belgium, Italy, Canada, and the United States of America.

Mr. Whitelaw

The following is the information:

Year Annual average percentage rate of unemployment—Scotland
1951 2.5
1952 3.3
1953 3.0
1954 2.8
1955 2.4
1956 2.4
1957 2.6
1958 3.8
1959 4.4
1960 3.7
1961 3.2
1962 3.8
1963 4.8

Some research will be necessary before the corresponding figures for Denmark, Belgium, Italy, Canada and the United States of America can be compiled. I am having the information prepared and will circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT as soon as I can.

The Earl of Dalkeith

asked the Minister of Labour what were the average monthly unemployment rates in Scotland for the following periods: 1929–31 and 1945–47 under the Unemployment Insurance Schemes, and 1952–62 under the National Insurance Acts.

Mr. Whitelaw

The following is the information:

Period Average percentage rate of unemployment: Scotland
1929–31 19.1
1945–47 3.7
1952–62 3.2