§ Mr. McMahonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the current unemployment figures.
§ Mr. Alexander FletcherOn 13 January 1983, seasonally adjusted unemployment in Scotland stood at 317,300, with an unemployment rate of 14.6 per cent.
The continuing rise in the level of unemployment is a cause for great concern. We are making every effort to bring about a lasting reduction in unemployment by controlling inflation, restoring competitiveness to industry and creating the right conditions for sustained growth. We are also making very substantial help available to those unable to get a job through the programme of special employment and training measures.