MASSIVE RISE IN UNEMPLOYMENT DEEPLY WORRYING - STUNELL

12.01.00am GMT Wed 7th Jan 2009

Local MP Andrew Stunell today expressed his deep concern at a 60% rise in unemployment in his Hazel Grove constituency since the start of the downturn in November 2007.

New government figures published this week show that unemployment rose right across Stockport. The figures show that there were 1,052 people claiming Job Seekers' Allowance in Andrew's Hazel Grove constituency in November, an increase of 60.6% on the same period in 2007. Across the four constituencies in Stockport, unemployment rose by 45% to 5,188.

The figures also show that unemployment has actually increased slightly since Labour came to power, and Hazel Grove constituency has seen the third-largest percentage increase in unemployment in the region.

Across Greater Manchester there were 53,857 people claiming job seekers' allowance, an increase of 36.56% since November 2007.

Commenting, Andrew said:

"These figures are deeply worrying, and I am very concerned about the effects the current downturn is having on people across Stockport and Greater Manchester. Jobs are being lost in almost every sector, from low-paid unskilled work, to hi-tech jobs.

"Over the coming weeks I intend to work closely with people affected by the increasing levels of unemployment.

"I will also be contacting Stockport Council's economic development officer as soon as possible, and working with other colleagues to find out what help can be provided at this difficult time."

ENDS