South-West Region

HC Deb 11 February 1985 vol 73 cc26-7W

Sir Peter Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Employment (1) what further steps he will take to reduce unemployment in Bideford;

(2) if he will make a statement on employment prospects for 1985 for the south-west region.

Mr. Alan Clark

The Government are committed to maintaining its economic policies which are directed at holding down inflation and public borrowing while encouraging enterprise, flexibility and competitiveness in industry and the labour market. That is the only way to generate lasting jobs in Bideford, the south west and elsewhere. In the meantime we are spending over £2 billion this year on a range of employment and training measures to help the unemployed, which are currently benefiting nearly 50,000 people in the south west region.

Sir Peter Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he is satisfied with the current provision of jobcentre facilities in Bideford; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peter Morrison

Yes. The Manpower Services Commission has agreed proposals for the development of the employment service, which my right hon. Friend has recently endorsed. These provide for Bideford jobcentre to retain a full level of service.

Sir Peter Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Employment which of Her Majesty's Government's initiatives have been most successful in generating new employment in the south-west of England.

Mr. Alan Clark

The Government are committed to maintaining their economic policies which are directed at holding down inflation and public borrowing, while encouraging greater enterprise, flexibility and competitiveness in industry and the labour market. This is the only way to generate lasting jobs in the south west and elsewhere. In addition, we are encouraging the growth of employment in the south west through initiatives such as the enterprise allowance scheme, which is currently helping some 3,300 people in the region to set up their own businesses, and the young workers scheme which is currently benefiting over 7000 youngsters. Moreover many parts of the south west continue to enjoy assisted area status.

Sir Peter Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will make a statement on the current trend in unemployment in the south-west of England.

Mr. Alan Clark

The seasonally adjusted level of unemployment (excluding school leavers) increased in the south-west region by 2,100 between December and January. Over the six months to January, which probably gives the best guide to the current trend, there was an average increase of 1,600 per month.