§ 43. Mr. Stan Thorneasked the Secretary of State for Employment what plans he has to reduce the level of unemployment in the Preston travel-to-work area.
§ Mr. Alan ClarkThe Government are concerned about the level of unemployment in Preston, and a substantial number of people in the area are benefiting from our special employment and training measures. Sustainable employment depends on a healthy economy and competitive industry. Our policies are directed to this end and we continue to look for ways of building on what has been achieved so far. One important effect on firms' competitiveness is the level of wages, and the Government believe that moderating the growth in real earnings will have a significant impact on unemployment in Preston and throughout the country.