NEWS that unemployment in Keighley and Ilkley has fallen once again has been warmly welcomed by local Conservative MP Kris Hopkins, who paid tribute to the ongoing private sector recruitment drive.

Figures released yesterday ((July 16))) by the Office for National Statistics showed that the number of unemployed claimants in Keighley and Ilkley fell by 68 last month to 1,624, a drop of 672 in comparison to June 2013.

Nationally, the number of people out of work fell by 121,000 to 2.12 million in the three months to May.

Mr Hopkins said: “It is very pleasing to be able to welcome yet another fall in local unemployment. Small and medium-sized firms are continuing to show faith in the ongoing economic recovery by expanding and bringing in more staff, which is great news for many individuals and families in Keighley and Ilkley.

“Nationally, employment is now at a record high with almost 31 million in work, and more people in full-time posts than ever before.

“Thanks to the long-term economic plan we have put in place, business confidence is rising month on month, good jobs are being created and people’s lives are being improved. But the Government’s the hard work will go on to maintain the progress we are making.”