Updated Claimant Count data was released this week, which shows that unemployment has increased in Newham by 7% since January 2011, whilst it has gone up by 4.2% nationally.

Lyn Brown MP said: “These unemployment figures are further evidence that the Tory-led Government is cutting too far and too fast. The Government has no plan for growth, and as a result the flat-lining economy has led to an appalling increase of 420 more people in West Ham losing their jobs.”

“The rise in the Claimant Count in West Ham is nearly double that of the UK as a whole. It is disgraceful that my constituents are losing their jobs as a result of the Government’s mismanagement of the economy. Every job lost is a tragedy for that individual and their family.”

“These figures also underplay the problem of underemployment and people having to accept fewer hours.”

“The Labour Party recognises the need to reduce the deficit, but this can only be done if people are in employment and the economy is growing. Labour’s policy of a credible deficit reduction plan, necessary to restore confidence, and investment in the economy, necessary for jobs and growth, is the right one for Britain.”

“I will continue to fight for jobs and growth in West Ham, and I urge the Government to take note.”

Write to Lyn Brown MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA, email brownl@parliament.uk or call 020 7219 6999