Witham MP Priti Patel has slammed the Labour Government after the latest unemployment data shows the numbers of jobs being lost in the economy rising. The national unemployment rate has now reached 5.1% and with unemployment among 18–34-year-olds reaching 8.7%. Within the Witham constituency the number of people added to the claimant count compared to a year ago continues to increase, with 1,575 people claiming unemployment-related benefits in Witham in total, including 335 aged 18 to 24, 55 more than last year. Priti said:
"Labour's tax-grabbing, business-bashing and job-destroying policies are damaging employment in Witham, Essex and throughout the country. Since Keir Starmer became Prime Minister last July we have seen unemployment rates rise every single month, with jobs being lost and local businesses across the constituency being hammered with higher costs that damage investment and prevent jobs being created and sustained. Labour's dreadful handling of the economy is causing serious hardship and poverty. They are destroying good local businesses and employment prospects for local constituents."
