Katy Clark notes unemployment rise in Arran and Ayrshire

Katy Clark MP points out that long-term unemployment in North Ayrshire and Arran has risen by 75% in the past year. The Office for National Statistics confirms that in November 2012, 3,758 people were seeking work in North Ayrshire and Arran. The number unemployed for more than 12 months has jumped from 740 to 1295 during that period, and is continuing to rise. Katy said, “These statistics confirm the extent to which the Government’s failed austerity programme is hurting the people of the North Ayrshire and Arran. Until the Government changes course there is little prospect of improvement.’ She added, ‘I will continue to do all I can in Parliament to persuade the Government to put a plan for growth at the centre of its economic strategy.