Farron: Local Unemployment Amongst Lowest In Country
Local MP Tim Farron has welcomed the latest figures showing that his Westmorland and Lonsdale constituency is in the lowest 4% of all constituencies across the country in terms of unemployment levels.
Statistics published today by the House of Commons library today show that in March 2016, the total number of unemployed claimants in Westmorland and Lonsdale constituency in March 2016 was 282.
This represents a rate of just 0.7% of the economically active population, compared to an equivalent rate of 2.5% nationally. Of all 650 UK constituencies, it has the 22nd lowest rate of unemployment.
However, the total number of claimants is 36 higher than in March 2015 and 11 higher than in February 2016.
There were 55 claimants aged 18-24 in Westmorland and Lonsdale constituency in March 2016, 15 higher than in March 2015.
Tim said: "It is good news that our area has such low levels of unemployment. It is one of the reasons why our area is such a great place to live, and shows the opportunities available here.
"However, the impressive headline figures must not cover up the very difficult situation many local people face. It is concerning that the figures are higher than last year, and show an increase on the previous month. I am particularly concerned that unemployment amongst young people in the area has increased.
"Local businesses have faced a challenging time as they try to recover from the effects of the floods. The government needs to play its part in supporting them in this, and ensuring that the local infrastructure on which they rely is fixed as soon as possible."