Unemployment figures show banking crisis has hit local families

6.13.08pm GMT Wed 29th Oct 2008

Jo slammed short-sighted cuts to the JobCentre Plus workforce

Figures released by the office for National Statistics have revealed that unemployment in East Dunbartonshire has risen by 33% in the past year.

Jo Swinson has urged the Scottish and UK governments to introduce Vince Cable's economic recovery plan, which would include protection for homeowners against repossessions, action to cut energy bills and restrictions on reckless banks.

Commenting on the figures, Jo said:

"The economic crisis may just be getting underway, but these figures show that it has already hit local jobs. The effects of the banking crisis have filtered down to the real economy and are being felt by families throughout East Dunbartonshire.

"Gordon Brown acted quickly to rescue the banks but he has not shown the same urgency in coming to the aid of ordinary families. Those people affected by unemployment should be able to access fast, efficient services from their benefit offices and jobcentres, but the Government has been cutting back hugely on staff in these services over the past two years. This is just another example of Labour failing to plan ahead for the economic downturn to come.

"Vince Cable's plan will put money back in the pockets of low and middle income families and help cut energy bills for those who need it most. Given Vince's track record on foreseeing the economic problems we are now facing, both the UK and Scottish Governments should be paying attention to this plan."

ONS figures for the number of unemployed claimants in East Dunbartonshire shows a rise from 508 in September 2007 to 679 in September 2008, an increase of 33%.

Related Links:

Lib Dem economic recovery plan

Link to unemployment statistics