Employment Figures Welcomed By MP

Tim Farron MP has welcomed the latest employment figures for Westmorland and Lonsdale.

The total number of unemployed claimants in Westmorland and Lonsdale constituency in December 2015 was 247. This puts the area in the top 4% of constituencies nationally in terms of employment levels. This is the equivalent to just 0.6% of the economically active population aged 16 to 64 being unemployed, compared to an equivalent national average rate of 2.4%.

Tim said: "These statistics are welcome news for our area, and show the strength of local businesses and the jobs they are providing.

"Local businesses relying on the tourist trade face a difficult period ahead, however, as disruption following the floods has an impact on visitor numbers. I am doing all I can to push for solutions such as a temporary reopening of the A591 to help boost the local tourist industry at this difficult time."