HC Deb 19 June 1979 vol 968 cc480-1W
29. Mr. Goodlad

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what is the latest percentage rate of unemployment in the North-West.

Mr. Jim Lester

At 10 May, the unemployment rate in the North-West region was 6.7 per cent.

32. Mr. Meacher

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what is his medium-term forecast of unemployment in the light of the Government's policies as outlined in the Queen's Speech.

Mr. Jim Lester

Unemployment in the medium-term will be largely determined by developments in the world economy, in Britain's trade performance, in productivity and in inflation. It is not possible to predict with any accuracy the outcome on all these fronts and therefore any forecast of unemployment is subject to very large errors. However the Government's policies will lay a secure basis for investment, productivity and increased employment in all parts of the United Kingdom.

Mr. Arnold

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what are the latest figures for unemployment; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Prior

At 10 May, 1,238,468 people were registered as unemployed in Great Britain.

The Government believe that the way to tackle unemployment is to restore incentives, encourage efficiency and create a climate in which commerce and industry can flourish. This will help to bring into existence more genuine jobs. We are also continuing to operate a programme of special employment measures, some of which will be concentrated in future on the areas with special employment needs.

Mr. Kilroy-Silk

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what are the total numbers and the percentages unemployed in (a) Merseyside, (b) the North—West,(c) the Northern region,(d) Scotland and (e) Wales.

Mr. Jim Lester

Following is the information at 10 May:

Numbers registered as unemployed Percentage rates of unemployment
Merseyside special development area. 83,371 11.0
North-west region 191,066 6.7
Northern region 109,636 7.9
Scotland 165,441 7.3
Wales 83,024 7.6