Press release

Welsh Secretary responds to Labour Market Statistics

Secretary of States for Wales Cheryl Gillan today [15 August 2012] welcomed news that employment in Wales has increased slightly and unemployment…

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Secretary of States for Wales Cheryl Gillan today [15 August 2012] welcomed news that employment in Wales has increased slightly and unemployment has now fallen in five out of the last six months.

Today’s ILO statistics also show that short term youth unemployment in Wales has fallen and overall youth unemployment is showing signs of stabilising.

Mrs Gillan said:

“I welcome today’s news of a fall in overall unemployment in Wales and a rise in the number of people in employment.”

“The employment rise is the fourth highest behind London, the North West and the South West and is above the overall rise in the UK rate. There are also encouraging signs that youth unemployment is stablising. Both the UK and Welsh Governments must work together to improve opportunities for young people in the months ahead.”

“We have to do more to turn this into a more positive trend so that our young people have access to the job opportunities they need.”

“The decisions the UK Government has taken recently to improve infrastructure such as rail electrification and broadband are helping to show that Wales is open for business and is a great place to invest.”

“Global economic conditions remain challenging. They underline the importance of our continued, relentless focus on the economy, supporting businesses, and helping them to invest and create jobs.”

Note to Editors:

  • The employment rate in Wales was 68.6%, an increase of 0.5% from the last quarter
  • The employment levels in Wales increased by 5,000 from the last quarter to 1.345m and is 8,000 above the same quarter of 2011
  • The Short Term Youth Unemployment (up to 6 months) was 15,400, a decrease of 3,600 on July 2011
Published 15 August 2012