§ 15. Mr. Norman Hoggasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the present level of unemployment in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Allan StewartThe total number unemployed in Scotland in March 1985 was 351,900. Reduction in unemployment depends on Scottish industry's ability to take advantage of the favourable economic climate which the Government have created. The Government have, however, given immediate help to the long term unemployed by increasing community programme places, and the proposed expansion of YTS will benefit school leavers.