HC Deb 01 February 1977 vol 925 cc146-7W
12. Mr. Hoyle

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what steps he is taking to reduce the level of unemployment in the North-West.

Mr. Golding

My Department has introduced a number of special measures to alleviate unemployment. These measures include the temporary employment subsidy, which has saved more jobs in the North-West than in any other region, together with the job creation programme, the youth employment subsidy and the work experience scheme. Since 3rd January 1977 the job release scheme has also been in operation in the North-West and other assisted areas. A total of about 62,200 people have now been helped by these schemes in the North-West. The Manpower Services Commission has also provided more support for training, and it is estimated that during 1976 some 13,500 people in the North-West completed training courses under the training opportunities scheme.