HC Deb 19 February 1980 vol 979 c105W
60. Mr. James Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on unemployment figures in Lanarkshire with particular reference to school leavers.

Mr. Alexander Fletcher

On 10 January 24,042 people were registered as unemployed in Lanarkshire, with unemployment rates of 13.0 per cent. in North Lanarkshire and 12.3 per cent. in South Lanarkshire. Of the total number unemployed, 1,960 were school leavers. The measures being taken by the Government to improve employment prospects for both young people and adults were explained in my answer to the hon. Gentleman on Wednesday, 6 February.—[Vol. 978, c. 223–4.]