Govt must not get complacent over employment problems, say Lib Dems

Responding to figures released today which show a fall in unemployment to 4.3% and a new record in job vacancies, Liberal Democrat Treasury Spokesperson Christine Jardine MP: “The Government mustn’t get complacent off the back of today’s figures. Thousands of people out of a job face a cost of living crisis this winter and are worried about higher energy bills, higher taxes and cuts to Universal Credit.

“Meanwhile countless businesses are crying out for help with record staff shortages – whether it’s HGV drivers or chefs – yet the Government has no plan whatsoever.

“Ministers can’t ignore these problems below the surface. We need to see real support with the cost-of-living crisis, starting with reversing the unfair cut to Universal Credit. And a proper plan to recruit all the extra workers on which our businesses depend.”