Andrew Gwynne MP - | Unemployment hits 17 year high

Unemployment hits 17 year high

The day of judgement on the Government’s economic decisions have arrived as unemployment soars and youth unemployment higher than ever

Commenting on today’s unemployment statistics, Andrew Gwynne MP said:

“This is a day of judgement for the government. With Denton and Reddish there are nine chasing every job, Denton and Reddish now needs a change of direction.

“Labour's 5 point plan for jobs and growth would get our area moving again. We need to get people back to work and off benefits, or the scar of unemployment will do long term damage. At the moment we are stuck in a vicious cycle, with more people on benefits and out of work the deficit is harder to get down.”

Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Liam Byrne said:

“Today's figures are the clearest proof yet that the government’s decision to cut too far and too fast is hurting and just not working. Unemployment is soaring, and more young people are out of work than ever before.

“Today Labour has summoned the Chancellor to the House of Commons for an all day debate on jobs and economy. The question he must answer is simple: will he now change course?”

There are more people unemployed than at any point since 1994, with this being the fastest rise in any three months since the recession. Youth unemployment has never been higher at 991,000.

Labour’s five-point plan for jobs

1. A £2 billion tax on bank bonuses to fund 100,000 jobs for young people – which they would be required to take-up – and build 25,000 more affordable homes.

2. Bringing forward long-term investment projects – schools, roads and transport – to get people back to work and strengthen our economy for the future.

3. Reversing January’s damaging VAT rise now for a temporary period – a £450 boost for a couple with children – immediate help for our high streets and for struggling families and pensioners.

4. A one year cut in VAT to 5% on home improvements, repairs and maintenance – to help homeowners and small businesses.

5. A one year national insurance tax break for every small firm which takes on extra workers – helping small businesses to grow and create jobs.