MP RANIL Jayawardena has welcomed the news that the number of people in work across the UK remains at a record high.

The north east Hampshire MP has also expressed his delight at the rate of women in work being at the highest level since comparable records began, showing the fundamentals of the economy remain strong. 

According to recently released figures, there are 331,009 more people in work in the South East than in 2010. 

In Mr Jayawardena’s own constituency, the number of people claiming the key out of work benefits has fallen by 488 – a 66 per cent drop – in the last six years.

As well as employment continuing at a record-high, figures show that the unemployment rate is holding steady, and average wages are growing ahead of inflation.

The MP commented: “Figures sees overall employment remain at record highs, and the number of young people in work remains high, but there is more to do. 

“I welcome the news that the Government is rolling out the Jobcentre Plus Support for Schools scheme in England which will give tens of thousands of young people help in taking their first steps into the world of work.”

He added: “The number of people in North East Hampshire relying on the key out of work benefits has fallen by 488 since 2010 – a 66 per cent drop – as businesses are able to get more people into work, helped by the decisions Conservatives have taken to strengthen our economy. 

“We know there is more to do to build an economy that works for everyone, and we will continue to work hard to help even more people benefit from the opportunities in our economy.”