HC Deb 17 June 1969 vol 785 c78W
Mr. Emery

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what action is being taken by Departments to reduce the level of unemployment; and what figure of unemployment it is now intended to maintain in order to carry out the Government's economic policy.

Mr. Diamond

Departments are acting variously to reduce unemployment by seeking to strengthen the balance of payments through assistance to export and import-saving industries and by promoting expansion in the Development Areas. As to the second part of the hon. Gentleman's Question, it is the Government's policy to maintain a high level of employment consistent with the overriding need to achieve a substantial balance of payments surplus as soon as possible.