14 September 2021
Fall in unemployment encouraging sign for the economy says MP

A fall in unemployment in South Shropshire has been welcomed by local MP, Philip Dunne.

Latest figures from the independent Office for National Statistics show the claimant count in South Shropshire fell by 70 between July and August, to 1,725 people. This is a claimant rate of 3.6% of the population aged 16-64, compared to 5.2% across the UK. Unemployment of those aged 18-24 in South Shropshire also fell between July and August.

Nationally, unemployment continues to fall, with the number of payrolled employees across the UK now having returned to pre-pandemic levels, following nine consecutive months of growth. Reflecting the economic recovery, the number of job vacancies in June to August 2021 surpassed 1 million, for the first time since records began. 

Mr Dunne said:

“This latest fall in unemployment in South Shropshire is an encouraging sign for the economy, and reflects the improving trading conditions as coronavirus restrictions were lifted in July.

“I am hopeful that the winter plan outlined by the government will ensure we can continue to recover the economy and deliver the security of regular work for more people in South Shropshire, while keeping the virus in check.”