HC Deb 08 June 1982 vol 25 cc35-6W
21. Mr. Skinner

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

32. Mr. Parry

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will make a statement on the latest unemployment figures.

Mr. Alison

The total number unemployed fell to 2,969,443 in May. Regional figures were published in the press notice issued on 25 May, a copy of which is in the Library. The figures confirm that the rate of underlying increase in unemployment has slackened. More vacancies are also now available. Although the total number unemployed will rise again in the short term, particularly as this summer's school leavers come on to the register, we are winning the long-term battle for economic recovery and future jobs, as the fall in inflation has shown.

25. Mr. Winnick

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will state the latest number who are registered as unemployed in the United Kingdom; what were the equivalent figures in May 1979; and what percentage increase this represents.

Mr. Alison

At May 1982, the number of people registered as unemployed in the United Kingdom was 2,969,443 compared with 1,299,282 at May 1979. the increase between these dates was 128.5 per cent.

34. Mr. John Grant

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what are the latest figures for unemployment.

Mr. Alison

At 13 May, the number of people registered as unemployed in the United Kingdom was 2,969,443, and the unemployment rate was 12.4 per cent.