HC Deb 19 February 1997 vol 290 c595W
Mr. David Atkinson

To ask the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement on the effect of his Department's policies on the residents of Bournemouth since 1992, with special reference to the effects of changes in the resources provided in real terms. [14946]

Mr. Lang

Bournemouth has benefited from the increased competitiveness of British industry since 1992, which has been brought by maintaining a stable economy, with low burdens on business and a flexible labour market.

Since December 1992, unemployment in Bournemouth has fallen by 44 per cent.—around 8 per cent. more than the national average.