Hastings and Rye MP welcomes record employment figures

In Hastings and Rye, the number of people claiming the key out of work benefits has fallen by 2310 – a 61 per cent drop – since 2010, and by 85 – a five per cent drop – since the same time last year.

Figures also show wages continuing to grow strongly, the youth unemployment rate at its lowest since 2005, the rate of women in employment at a record high, and the number of disabled people in work up by nearly 600,000 over the past three years.

Ms Rudd said: “This is great news for our country and for our local communities, with the number of people in Hastings and Rye relying on the key out of work benefits down 61 per cent since 2010, while the employment level nationwide has hit a record high.

“It shows that our on-going welfare reforms are working – continuing to incentivise work and making sure the system is fair to all those who need it and those who pay for it.

“We have made real progress creating a strong economy and helping people into work.

“However, I know there is more to do as we build a country that works for everyone. That is why I will continue to champion our area as a place to invest, and to hold Jobs and Apprenticeship Fairs in Hastings with the next one planned for later this year.”

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