Written question asked by David S Borrow (Labour) on Tuesday, 11 November 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 17 November 2003. It was answered by Lord Browne of Ladyton (Labour) on Monday, 17 November 2003 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Dept for Work and Pensions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, if he will make a statement on long-term trends in unemployment. (Failed OPQ). - Inc figures.

Answer: Mr. Borrow: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will make a statement on long- term trends in unemployment. [138655] Mr. Browne: Labour market statistics continue to show employment growing and unemployment on a downward trend. In the last month the unemployment figure fell from 3.1 per cent. to 3.0 per cent., the lowest figure in over 25 years. These are great achievements. But we know we still have more to do. We are working to ensure that all groups of people, in all parts of the country, have access to job opportunities and are given the support they need to overcome the barriers they face.

Secondary information