NEARLY three times as many people in Weston are claiming unemployment benefits compared to the number across the rest of North Somerset.

Although unemployment in the town has continued to fall, new figures released by the Office for National Statistics show 2.6 per cent of people in Weston were claiming for Jobseekers Allowance in November 2013, compared to 0.9 per cent across the rest of North Somerset.

While unemployment in the town has fallen since 2012, 7.8 per cent of people living in the Weston parliamentary constituency are not in work compared to 3.4 per cent in the North Somerset constituency.

However, 633 fewer people in Weston were claiming Jobseekers Allowance in November 2013 compared to the same time in 2012.

More men are claiming than women, with 3.4 per cent of men living in Weston unemployed compared to 1.1 per cent of men in North Somerset.

Weston town councillor Mike Bell said: “The falling unemployment numbers in Weston are definitely good news and point towards a recovery in the economy, locally and nationally.

“We need to shout out loud that Weston is a place to do business and attract the continued investment and quality jobs that we need.

“The Mercury has reported on positive trading from existing firms and more people looking to start up new businesses.

“I am sure this will continue through this new year. It’s important that we build on the momentum, however, and I’d like to see North Somerset Council cutting business rates for new start-ups.

“The Government should be cutting business taxes in the budget and encourage lending by the banks to help deliver a stronger economy.”