Hebden Bridge News

Calderdale Economy Needs Continued Support Of Government

New figures reveal over 3,000 more people were unemployed in Calderdale during the last recession, and Calder Valley’s Labour Parliamentary Candidate, Steph Booth, has warned that it would be disastrous for Calderdale if Government support for the economy were removed.

Speaking after the latest employment figures showed a slight rise in the number of people out of work in Calderdale, despite unemployment in the UK falling for the first time in 18 months, she said figures dating back to the last recession in 1992 showed how important it was for the Government to invest in job support measures.

“It’s a very tough time for many people in Calderdale at the moment and every job lost is a tragedy for that person and their family,” she said. “We’re fighting a difficult global recession but Labour is taking action to keep as many people in jobs as possible. During the last recession in 1992 there were over 3,000 more people unemployed in Calderdale and that’s why it’s vital we don’t cut off support now.”

“The difference between then and now is Labour is taking action to help people in Calderdale back into work and supporting businesses and homeowners,”

Independent statistics, collated and released by the Labour Party, show unemployment rates in Calderdale today and during the previous UK recession in 1992. In December 1992 there were 9,166 people claiming unemployment benefits compared to 6,065 in November 2009.

“The difference between then and now is Labour is taking action to help people in Calderdale back into work and supporting businesses and homeowners,” argued Mrs Booth. “Direct assistance like the business tax deferral scheme and mortgage assistance and advice will help local people. The School Leavers Guarantee, which ensures young people can stay on in learning or training, our apprenticeship scheme and the Future Jobs Fund, which is creating thousands of jobs across Yorkshire, are all making a big difference.”

“While the economy is fragile, it is crucial that we maintain support both for the local economy here in Calderdale and nationally. To cut back on the fiscal stimulus, like the Tories are suggesting, would again be the wrong call at the wrong time.”