Wednesday we saw some more positive jobs figures from the independent Office for National Statistics (ONS). It is, of course, important to say from the outset that there is much more work to do. Until we significantly reduce long term unemployment, youth unemployment and the North East’s historically high unemployment levels, then our work will never be done, but the plans as set out in the Adonis Report will help hugely.
The key figures are:
Since last month:
- Unemployment in Hexham, the North East region, and in the UK as a whole, is down significantly
It is more important, however, to look at long-term trends.
Since the Government came into office in May 2010, unemployment in the North East region is down by 1,600. Unemployment has dropped by 17,000 (18%) since the February 2012 peak and is on a downward trend. In Hexham, that figure is down 20% in Hexham in the same period, and is down 8% since May 2010.
In relation to youth unemployment, since February 2012 it is down in the region by 7,675 (24.5%). In Hexham and during the same period, it is down by 25.4%.
These are positive and welcome figures. However, behind these figures are lives, families and jobs. The Coalition Government and I are not complacent, and we must carry on the good work already started.
