News from Labour Matters

“Bleak unemployment figures are bad news” says John Denham

New unemployment figures show there are now over 2,500 people on Jobseekers Allowance in Southampton Itchen.

Unemployment is now higher than at any point since 1994, the last time the Conservative Party was in power. Youth unemployment is now perilously close being over one million. Women’s unemployment now stands at 1,069,000, the highest it has been since 1988.

Today’s figures are the clearest proof yet that the Tory-led Government’s decision to cut too far and too fast is hurting and not working.

Mr Denham said: “These bleak unemployment figures are bad news. It clearly shows the Tory-led Government has taken Britain on the wrong path. While unemployment is decreasing in America, Japan and the rest of Europe, ours has risen to its highest level in 17 years.

“What we need now is a decent plan for growth and jobs.”

Labour’s Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary, Liam Byrne said: “This is a day of judgement for the government.

“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.

“Britain now needs a change of direction. What we now need is a new plan like Labour’s 5 point plan for jobs and growth. Getting people – and our young people – back to work is quite simply the safest, surest way to get the deficit down and put Britain on the right course for the future.

“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?”

Other news from Labour Matters

• Southampton Labour release alternative 'Budget for Fairness' - 6 February 2012
• Westminster Council to cut Taxicard budget by £500,000 a year - 11 August 2011
• Ed Miliband calls for action over phone hacking scandal - 5 July 2011