Employment

Lord Bishop of Newcastle Excerpts
Wednesday 15th January 2014

(10 years, 11 months ago)

Lords Chamber
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Lord Freud Portrait Lord Freud
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There are two distinct factors. The higher the minimum wage, the more people will not go into the market. Estimates show that if we were to go with the recommended living wage, we would lose 300,000 jobs, particularly among youngsters. On the other side of the argument, there are benefits in terms of pay, particularly for the Government, because—as my noble friend mentioned—the tax credit system boosts the pay of low-paid people. That is the balance of the debate.

Lord Bishop of Newcastle Portrait The Lord Bishop of Newcastle
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My Lords, the Minister will be aware that there are still significant regional differences in unemployment levels in the UK. Can he tell us what regional policies the Government may have in mind to help the situation in areas such as the one where I live, in the north-east of England, where unemployment levels are still in double figures?

Lord Freud Portrait Lord Freud
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My Lords, I was encouraged, as other noble Lords will have been, to hear the very optimistic remarks about what is happening in the north; namely, that it is outpacing London at this particular time. Let us hope that that is and remains the case.