HC Deb 02 November 1989 vol 159 cc322-3W
24. Mr. Clelland

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what action he intends to take to reduce unemployment in west Belfast.

Mr. Needham

Much action has already been taken to tackle the problems of unemployment in west Belfast. The Belfast action team and the "making Belfast work" initiatives have focussed attention and resources on encouraging employment and enterprise in west Belfast. To date these initiatives have proved successful in stimulating local enterprise. Further plans have been drawn up to build on the initial local successes which have been assisted by major private sector investments such as the choice by Montupet of the former De Lorean factory for its 1,000 job project.

28. Mr. Battle

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he intends to act upon the recommendations of the Phoenix West Belfast development trust.

Mr. Needham

I am pleased to say that many of the recommendations are already being implemented, particularly under the "making Belfast work" and Belfast action team initiatives. Contacts have also been made to enable Phoenix to discuss its proposals for jobs creation directly with IDB and LEDU.

29. Mr. Cryer

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the current level of unemployment in the Province.

Mr. Needham

On 14 September 1989, the latest date for which figures are available, seasonally adjusted unemployment in the Province stood at 103,000 which is its lowest level since November 1982.