Chloe on Labour Market Statistics

Data released today by the Office for National Statistics has shown that the total number of people claiming Jobseekers Allowance during January has increased by 23,500 nationally to reach 1.64 million. This follows two consecutive monthly falls in the claimant count and is the highest figure since April 1997.

There have also been increases in the number of claimants in part of the Eastern Region. In Norfolk the claimant count has risen by 1,350 from 18,381 to 19,731 people- the highest figure for 13 years. In Norwich the claimant count has also risen by 6% from 4,360 claimants in December to 4,639 last month. This is a 30% increase in claimants since January 2009.

Commenting on today's Labour Market Statistics Chloe Smith, Member of the Department of Work and Pensions Select Committee and MP for Norwich North said:

"It is very disappointing that claimant counts nationally, and in Norfolk, have reached their highest points since 1997.

"I recently raised concerns with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions about the Future Jobs Fund. I commended the Conservative-run Norfolk County Council for creating 300 extra jobs, but it still remains that this scheme is not attracting local businesses or companies outside of the public sector.

"In my own constituency, Norwich North, the claimant count has increased in one month from 2,265 to 2,457. Government schemes are simply not working."