HC Deb 26 October 1987 vol 121 cc23-4W
16. Sir Anthony Meyer

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what information he has as to the percentage of jobs in Wales which are in firms whose headquarters are outside the United Kingdom.

Mr. Peter Walker

An estimated 22 per cent. of jobs in manufacturing industry in Wales are in firms whose headquarters are outside the United Kingdom, reflecting the considerable success of our inward investment activity. Figures for non-manufacturing are not available.

17. Mr. Roy Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what are the latest unadjusted figures for unemployment in (a) Newport, (b) Gwent and (c) Wales: and if he will give the equivalent figure for 1979 on the most nearly comparable basis.

Mr. Peter Walker

On 10 September 1987, 8,649, 25,465 and 154,996 persons were unemployed in Newport district, Gwent and Wales respectively. Unadjusted figures for 1979 are not available on a basis that enables a valid comparison to be made.

Sir Raymond Gower

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what has been the fall in unemployment in Wales during the past 12 months; and what has been the increase in notified job vacancies during the same period.

Mr. Peter Walker

Between 11 September 1986 and 10 September 1987 the number of unemployed claimants in Wales fell by 25,374. Between 5 September 1986 and 4 September 1987 the number of vacancies notified to jobcentres and careers offices in Wales increased by 357.