The latest employment numbers released by the Office for National Statistics show that the rate of unemployment remains at 4.3% - the lowest in 40 years.
Damian welcomed the figures that also show that employment remains at a near record high, with 32 million people in work, with the strength of the economy continuing to drive an increase in full-time and permanent work.
Damian, who is also Minister for Employment, said:
“When unemployment fell to 5% early last year, many people thought it couldn’t get much lower, and yet it now stands at 4.3%. Everyone should be given the opportunity to find work and enjoy the stability of a regular pay packet, and the Government’s welfare reforms continue to support that effort.”
The number of claimants within East Hampshire is 345, which is largely unchanged.