“Two sides” to DWP statistics

People concerned about debt management issues arising from redundancy may be interested in new statistics from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

The figures show a decrease in the number of people claiming Lone Parent benefits and incapacity benefits, with the total dropping by 70,000 over the 12-month period ending in February.

Additionally, employment rates went up, according to Office for National Statistics figures which compared the first two quarters of 2008.

However, those claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance also rose by 20,100.

Work and Pensions minister James Plaskitt said there were “two sides” to the statistics.

“The welcome news is that the numbers on incapacity benefits and lone parent benefit continue to fall as our reforms kick in.

“The disappointing news is the increase in unemployment,” he added, stating that 600,000 jobs are available for those who need them.

James Plaskitt is also the MP for Warwick and Leamington. He was first elected in 1997.