Kirk - Government Must do Everything it Can to Keep Unemployment Low

4.30.00pm GMT Thu 29th Jan 2009

Prospective Lib Dem MP for York Outer, Madeleine Kirk, is calling on the government to take action to ensure that unemployment levels in the new seat remain amongst the lowest in the country.

The figures show that the unemployment rate in the area is currently just 3.3%.

Madeleine Kirk said: "It's good to hear that the unemployment rate in York Outer is so low at the moment- it's nice to hear some good news on the economy for a change.

"However, if these figures are to stay positive we need to see action from the government to ensure that existing jobs are not lost, and to create new ones, as we head deeper into recession. I am pleased that locally the council is offering help to local businesses and providing extra advice, but nationally the government must do more, especially to help businesses. We need to see more affordable loans to make sure businesses can keep their existing staff in their jobs.

"I am currently conducting a survey of the small and medium sized businesses in York Outer. I hope the survey will show that businesses here are thriving, but whatever the result the Lib Dems will keep lobbying the government for more help for our local businesses to keep local people in employment."