Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, has welcomed new figures showing that 701 fewer people are claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance in South Staffordshire since 2010, a 45% drop.
People are moving off benefits and into work across the West Midlands, with 83,000 more people in work compared to the last election. Across Britain unemployment has fallen by its largest annual amount since records began – falling below two million for the first time since 2008.
The figures also confirmed that next year the basic state pension will rise by 2.5%, faster than inflation and earnings, because of the Conservatives’ triple lock. The £148 rise will help ensure financial security for older people who have worked hard all their lives. Since 2010 the basic state pension has risen by £800.
Gavin said: “These figures are great news, confirming not only that 701 fewer people in South Staffordshire are relying on benefits since 2010, but also that the state pension will rise by £148 next year – faster than earnings or inflation. This means a brighter, more secure future for people in South Staffordshire who want to work hard and get on, as well as for those who’ve spent their whole lives doing so.
“This has happened because of our action in Government: backing local businesses to create jobs with our long-term economic plan, reforming welfare, and introducing the pensions triple lock to ensure that people who have worked hard all their lives are properly rewarded.
“As these figures show that plan is working, delivering an above inflation rise in the state pension and getting us closer to our target for full employment. This means greater financial security for hardworking taxpayers and their families in South Staffordshire, who can look forward to the future with greater peace of mind.”