STEPHEN Metcalfe, Member of Parliament for South Basildon & East Thurrock, has welcomed the news that the UK unemployment rate has fallen to its lowest level in 12 years, according to figures released today.
Locally, the number of people claiming the key out of work benefits has fallen by 1.657 – a 59 per cent drop – since 2010.
Today’s figures also show wages continuing to grow strongly, the employment rate running at a record high and long-term unemployment at its lowest since before the 2008 recession.
Mr Metcalfe said:
‘These figures show that the Government’s on-going welfare reforms are working – continuing to incentivise work and making sure the system is fair to all those who need it as well as those who pay for it.
‘Conservatives have made real progress creating a strong economy and helping people into work, and we will continue that work as we build a country that works for everyone, with more people sharing in our country’s prosperity.’
