Redditch MP welcomes UK's lowest unemployment figures since 1975 - The Redditch Standard

Redditch MP welcomes UK's lowest unemployment figures since 1975

Redditch Editorial 20th Dec, 2019   0

RETURNING MP Rachel Maclean has welcomed new figures which show UK unemployment at its lowest since January 1975 – with the claimant count down by 35 per cent since 2010 in Redditch.

The number of people out of work fell by 13,000 to 1.281 million, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

There are now 32.8 million in work in the UK – up by 3.75 million since 2010.

However while the employment rate rose to an all-time high of 76.2 per cent, the annual wage growth has fallen.




The latter has decreased to 3.5 per cent from 3.6 per cent between July and September 2019.

Pay is still increasing in real terms but its growth rate has slowed in the last few months.


Mrs Maclean said: “The actions of the Conservatives in government have resulted in more people being in work than ever before and that includes more women.

“Behind these figures are people back in work, earning a regular pay packet to provide for their families.

“But we must go further to help my constituents with the cost of living, which is why I’m pleased it is the Conservatives increasing the National Living Wage to £10.50 an hour by 2024 and lifting the National Insurance threshold to £9,500 next year.

“It will save many of my constituents approximately £100.”

Reader Travel

Check out all of the latest reader travel offers to get your hands on some free gifts.

Public Notices

View and download all of the public notices in the Redditch Standard.

Advertising

Advertise with the Redditch Standard to reach your audience

Business Directory

From plumbers, to restaurants, we can provide you with all the info you need.