HC Deb 28 April 1983 vol 41 c421W
22. Mr. Ashton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he expects any improvement in the United Kingdom economy to be reflected in a fall in unemployment.

Mr. Wakeham

It has never been the practice of this or previous Governments to publish unemployment forecasts. The Financial Statement and Budget Report 1983–84 included a forecast that GDP would grow by 2½ per cent. between the first half of this year and next. Provided further moderation in wage settlements is achieved, this should help produce an improved outlook for jobs.