The New Statesman | UK politics and culture Why Britain isn't working - with Alison McGovern, Minister of State for Employment
Feb 21, 2025
Alison McGovern, the Minister of State for Employment, dives into Britain's ongoing employment crisis, where 9 million working-age individuals remain jobless. She discusses alarming youth unemployment, with over a million disengaged from education or training. Mental health's impact on prolonged unemployment is critically explored, along with the need for welfare reforms to enhance local job opportunities. McGovern emphasizes the importance of supportive workplace environments and cooperative efforts between employers and government to promote improved employee rights.
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UK Employment Crisis
- The UK's employment rate hasn't recovered post-pandemic, unlike other countries.
- While technical unemployment is low, economic inactivity, where people want jobs but face barriers, is a bigger concern.
Health and Geography Impacting Employment
- The UK's health hasn't bounced back post-pandemic impacting employment, especially for young people.
- Geographical disconnection from urban job centers also contributes to worklessness.
Long-Term Worklessness Among Young People
- Young people, the healthiest demographic, are increasingly facing long-term worklessness due to ill health.
- This is concerning as that first job is crucial for career development and long-term earning potential.