asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he is satisfied with the latest level of unemployment in Birmingham; and if he will make a statement.

No. At 6 per cent. the level of unemployment in Birmingham is far too high. The special employment measures introduced by my Department have so far helped over 17,800 people in Birmingham. and will be further strengthened by the implementation of the youth opportunities programme and the special temporary employment programme, and by the extension of the small firms employment subsidy from the new year. However, a permanent improvement in Birmingham's unemployment rate depends on measures to keep down inflation, improve the competitiveness of British industry, and to bring about an increase in world trade.