Tory spin is far from the SBET reality

While the complacent Tory led government delivers figures stating that unemployment is down this month the reality for residents in South Basildon and East Thurrock (SBET) is far from optimistic. People claiming JSA in the constituency over the past 12 months has only fallen by 1% (5 people) while claimants of Job Seekers Allowance for over 12 months, aged 24 and under, has trebled in the East of England under this government. This is a far cry from the picture being painted by the Tories who are looking after their own wealthy chums while many people need the support of food banks to feed their families. A rise in youth unemployment and yet another rise in long term unemployment is happening because there is simply not enough work to go round and the proof is a record high in the number of part-time workers looking for full-time jobs. These are the real facts: Real wages fell yet again by £12 a week, Unemployment went up across half of Britain, The youth jobless rate rose by 9,400 and long term unemployment rose yet again. There's now been an incredible rise of 364,000 part time workers looking for full time jobs since the election. We need a recovery for all so Labour will to help to make work pay by introducing a lower 10p starting rate of tax, paid for by a mansion tax, and to repeat the tax on bank bonuses to pay for a compulsory jobs guarantee for young people. Times are tough and we all need to play our part but while Cameron, Clegg and the better off in society are protected from their own austerity measures, the imbalance is clear for all to see. I am campaigning for a level playing field for all citizens in South Basildon and East Thurrock and fighting against a Tory/Lib Dem government that has turned its back on those who most need our help.