PRESS RELEASE

19 February 2002

OTTAWAY EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER RISING UNEMPLOYMENT IN CROYDON

Following the publication of unemployment figures for London Boroughs, Richard Ottaway, Conservative MP for Croydon South, has expressed concern over rising unemployment in Croydon.

Richard Ottaway says:-

"Not only has unemployment risen in Croydon by over 550 since June 2001, but unemployment has been rising in every borough in London. This is bad news for London and bad news for Croydon."

"This Labour Government is more interested in spinning about high growth and economic stability than they are in putting our economy on course to achieve either. Unemployment was steadily falling before Labour came to power but now it is rising."

Ends.

If you require further information, please call 020 7219 6392.