The Government’s promise to cut jobseeker numbers by 50,000 is completely off track, with yesterday’s opening of the books confirming it is nowhere near being met.
“This Government is out of touch and is making things worse, not better for people who are struggling with the cost of living,” Labour Social Development spokesperson Willie Jackson said.
"Despite warnings from officials that the target was at risk, Treasury now forecasts jobseeker numbers will still sit at around 200,000 in 2030 - a staggering 60,000 short of the Government’s own target.
“These are real people, with real families, who cannot find work under this Government.
"Yesterday’s Half Year Economic and Fiscal Update also shows unemployment is set to rise and growth is weaker than expected.
“The Government’s track record is abysmal. Almost every quarter jobseeker numbers are up, homelessness is rising, businesses are closing and jobs are disappearing.
“The facts speak for themselves. This Government is failing on its own measures,” Willie Jackson said.
