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Economic Downturn (Unemployment)

There are a number of different schemes. The mortgage interest support scheme that is delivered in part through Jobcentre Plus has been helping thousands of families around the region. It is available after 13 weeks of a claim for those who qualify and it offers help for up to £200,000-worth of a mortgage and to pay the interest on loans up to that amount. It has been extremely successful. The package of support for housing in this recession has meant that, unlike in the previous recessions, we have not seen the huge growth in repossessions that we saw in those recessions. The fears of commentators have not been realised, thanks to the various measures that have been brought forward, some perhaps with better take-up than others. However, the realisation is there from people that they can get real help. For the 25 per cent. or so still unemployed after six months, we now have a £1,000 payment, referred to during questions by my hon. Friend the Member for South Swindon, which will be given to employers as an incentive to take on the long-term unemployed. There is also a new training offer available, a self-employment option and volunteering opportunities. For the one in 10 people still unemployed after a year, the flexible new deal gives enhanced help into employment from expert contractors.