Jobless rate rises

The number of jobless residents claiming job seekers allowance has increased by over 200 in Gateshead, over the past year, according to recent official figures.

And with national unemployment rising as well, concerns are being expressed about future job prospects on Tyneside.

In September 2005, 3,359 people in Gateshead were unemployed and receiving job seekers allowance. In September 2006 the figure rose to 3,564.

Liberal Democrat Councillor Jonathan Wallace said, “The recent rise in interest rates is likely to have a knock on effect on the economy and could mean fewer jobs being created. This is therefore a worrying trend.

“In addition, the actual level of unemployment is nearly double that indicated in the figures the government supplies. They only include those who are unemployed and on job seekers allowance. All others are excluded from the figures.

“The reality is that unemployment therefore stands at around 7,000 in Gateshead.”