MP hits out at job stats

Unemployment

Co a t b r i d g e M P High Gaffney says a 37 per cent rise in unemployment in his constituency during the past year is “unacceptable”.

The Advertiser told last month how a total of 2085 residents in Coatbridge, Chryston & Bellshill had claimed jobseekers’ allowance in October, compared to 1520 in the same month in 2017.

A total of 415 of Coatbridge constituency claimants in the most recent statistics are aged 18 to 24, a rise of 100 on the previous year.

Mr Gaffney said: “These figures demonstrate that unemployment continues to rise in my constituency because of a collective failure on the part of the Scottish and UK governments to provide high-quality, secure employment for local people.

“We need to see a concerted effort by [ both] governments to encourage the creation of new jobs in all areas of the country, through investment and proper support being in place for those looking for work.

“Areas where universal credit has been piloted or rolled out have often witnessed increases in rent arrears and foodbank usage as a result.

“I don’t believe that pushing people into debt or forcing them to rely on foodbanks is any meaningful way to support them into work.”

The October figures showed that 2130 residents in the neighbouring constituency of Airdrie & Shotts claimed jobseekers’ allowance in October, up by 625 people or 41 per cent from 2017, with an increased number of 465 being aged under 24.