§ Mr. Ernie Rossasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what has been the percentage increase in Dundee since May 1979 amongst the following groups (a) total unemployed and (b) male unemployed.
§ Mr. Alexander FletcherBetween May 1979 and January 1981, the total number registered as unemployed in Dundee inceased by 72.1 per cent. and the number of males registered as unemployed by 72.3 per cent. The figures on which the increase have been based include school leavers and have not been adjusted to take account of seasonal factors, both of which normally lead to unemployment being higher in January than in May.
Mr. ErnieRoss asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will introduce a programme of public works in Dundee in view of its unemployment rate of 14.3 per cent and male unemployment rate of 16.1 per cent.
§ Mr. Alexander FletcherThe creation of a healthy economy by restraint of public expenditure and curbing inflation holds the best hope for a reduction in unemployment in Dundee. Nonetheless, within planned levels of expenditure, the Government have recognised Dundee's problems by granting special development area status. In addition, the Scottish Development Agency is responsible for nearly 3 million square feet of factory space in the city and has announced its intention to spend some £5 million on an integrated development project.