Why has unemployment in Bedford and Kempston risen under Labour in Bedford but not elsewhere?
Posted by Richard | Filed under Business, Economy
When Labour came to office in 1997, the number of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance in Bedford and Kempston was the same as the national average – 4.3% of the working population in both case.
Today, whereas the national average is still below that June 1997 figure at 4.1%, the rate in Bedford and Kempston is much higher at 5.3%.
Employment prospects in Bedford and Kempston have suffered under Labour. We have not capitalised on the boom period to attract new employment, promote local businesses or even to shape a coherent, consistent strategy to restore our economic health. As a Bedfordian, and in my heart, I know we can do better.
