‘Alarm bells should ring’

MP’s verdict on unemployment

JUDITH TONNER

The number of people claiming unemployment benefits in Monklands rose by 3900 between March and May, according to new figures from the House of Commons research library.

Nearly a third of workers in Airdrie and Coatbridge have also been furloughed since the start of the coronavirus job retention scheme in March – and Neil Gray, the Airdrie MP, says “alarm bells should be ringing”.

A total of 4055 residents in Airdrie & Shotts claimed unemployment benefits in May, compared to 2285 in March. The figures in neighbouring Coatbridge & Chryston went from 2165 people to 4295 in the latest set of figures.

Government figures also show that 14,800 employments in Coatbridge, Chryston & Bellshill and 12,600 in Airdrie & Shotts had been furloughed up to the end of June.

The numbers represent 32 per cent and 31 per cent respectively of posts eligible for the scheme and are in line with overall North Lanarkshire figure of 31 per cent of posts – 49,500 employments – being furloughed during the Covid-19 crisis.

Meanwhile, a total of 4700 claims had been made to the self-employed income support scheme by Monklands residents by the end of May, totalling £13.5 million.

Self- employed people in Coatbridge, Chryston & Bellshill made 2500 claims while there were 2200 in Airdrie & Shotts – covering 77 per cent and 74 per cent respectively of the eligible business population.

Mr Gray expressed concern about the rise of 1770 additional people claiming unemployment benefit in his constituency since before the coronavirus lockdown.

He is calling for an extension to the furlough scheme, due to end in October.

The MP, who is the SNP’s work and pensions spokesperson at Westminster, said: “If these figures are replicated across the UK, then alarm bells should be ringing.

“Airdrie & Shotts cannot afford to lose jobs and I really worry that those on furlough will not be able to return to their work if further assistance is not forthcoming. Thousands of jobs are already being cut and businesses are going under.”

He said: “It’s vital that the Chancellor introduces a meaningful fiscal stimulus of at least £80 billion to fuel the economy, extends the furlough scheme into 2021, and devolves the economic powers and funds the Scottish Parliament needs to deliver a tailored response in Scotland.”

Scottish secretary Alister Jack said: “The UK government is doing whatever it takes to get Scotland, and the whole of the UK, through the coronavirus pandemic and ensure our economy can get back on track.

“This unprecedented package of support is protecting Scottish jobs and businesses, and will ensure that Scotland’s economy can recover for the future.”