HC Deb 26 February 1986 vol 92 c585W
28. Mr. Millan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the latest figures for Scottish unemployment.

Mr. Rifkind

On 9 January 1986 the number of unemployed claimants in Scotland was 371,117. While this was an increase of 17,868 over the preceding month, the seasonally adjusted figure fell by 500. The problem of continued high unemployment is one of my major concerns. A necessary prerequisite to its resolution is continued growth in the economy. The Government's economic policy is designed to achieve this and is succeeding.

Dr. Godman

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many jobs are estimated by his Department to be available in Greenock and Port Glasgow.

Mr. Allan Stewart

In January of this year there were 223 notified unfilled vacancies in Greenock.