Hain Voices Concern over Continuing Youth Unemployment

MP for Neath Peter Hain has issued a stark warning today regarding the latest unemployment figures for Neath, saying that young people in the area are being let down by the Government’s failing economic policies and left behind by an increasingly tough job market.

Mr Hain says, ‘I welcome the news that the number of people claiming Job Seeker’s Allowance has decreased, however slightly, since last month.’

‘However, the fact is that Neath’s unemployment figures show that young people in particular are struggling in the current economic climate, especially in comparison to other parts of the UK.’

Figures released today show that 33.0% of 18-24 year olds in Neath are currently seeking Job Seeker’s Allowance, compared to a figure of 28.8% in Wales and 25.8% in Great Britain as a whole.

According to Mr Hain, ‘in summer, a slight drop in the number of JSA claimants can be expected as people are offered seasonal work outdoors. However, this employment is temporary and once winter approaches people will be under even more pressure to make their pennies go further amid ever-increasing fuel and food costs.’