Newstats showa dropin UCclaims

The number of people claiming Universal Credit (UC) has fallen in the East Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow constituency.

The latest figures from the Department of Works and Pensions (DWP) show that as of November there was yearon-year a one per cent drop in all the alternative claimant count, which factors in the change to UC, and a 10 per cent drop in the number of 18-24-year-olds claiming the benefit.

This meant that as of November 1559 people were claiming UC in the constituency, with 280 aged 18-24.

The five year figures show a 28 and 34 per cent drop respectively.

In South Lanarkshire there was a four per cent drop yearon-year in all claimants, sitting at 6144, with 1104 in the 18-24 age bracket – a drop of six per cent.

The five-year drop was 26 per cent for all claimants and 33 per cent for 18-24 year-olds.

East Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow MP, Dr Lisa Cameron, said: “It is progress that more people are getting into work, but we must try to make sure that the work available is stable to provide reassurance for their families.

“As we know, different types of claimant count may skew figures and as Chair of the Disability All Party Parliamentary Group, I have been challenging the Government to ensure an inclusive economy – and to focus particularly on closing the massive disability employment gap.”

East Kilbride MSP Linda Fabiani added: “Whilst I welcome any drop in unemployment across the constituency, there is a slight weakening of the labour market from one year ago.

“With Brexit looming, the Scottish Government is working hard on employability services such as Fair start Scotland, which is providing the right support to assist people into work.”

Graham Simpson MSP was also pleased to see a boost on the jobs front.

He said: “It is encouraging to see that unemployment has gone down over the past year in South Lanarkshire.

“South Lanarkshire has a host of quality jobs and there’s potential for even further growth.

“In the grand scheme, more needs to be done by the Scottish Government to attract high paying, quality jobs.”