We Must Do More To Tackle Unemployment

Figures released today show that unemployment nationally now stands at 2.46 million. In North Durham, some 2,504 people are claiming Job Seekers allowance, compared to 1,286 in January last year. That is a shocking increase of 94%. That is 1,218 more families being affected by the davastation of unemployment.

Unemployment is the worst of all economic problems because of the impact it has on individuals, families and communities, as well as the impact it has on our economic productivity as a region and a nation. That is why I believe the Government could and should be doing more to tackle unemployment.

I am calling for a comprehensive programme to tackle unemployment. This means the creation of 200,000 new apprenticeships and training places over 2 years. It means creating a proper National Loan Guarantee Scheme to get credit moving again, as well as helping businesses to create new jobs. It means the provision of high quality careers advice and guidance to help people find work as quickly as possible.

We must marshall all the resources at our disposal to tackle unemployment. It will be my priority if elected as MP for North Durham.