TORY MP Sir David Amess told the House of Commons of the "dramatic" cut in long-term unemployment in Southend West and declared there is a job for everyone who wants to work.

Sir David asked Employment Minister and fellow Essex MP, Priti Patel: "Is she aware of the dramatic fall in long-term unemployment in Southend West of 49 per cent? Please will she reassure me that the Government will continue to pursue the economic policies that have made this happen so that we reach the happy position where there is a job available for everyone who wishes to work?"

Ms Patel, MP for Witham, said: "My hon. Friend is absolutely right about the record levels of employment in his wonderful constituency and across Essex, which is booming when it comes to private sector jobs. We can never be complacent. The claimant count has nearly halved since 2010, and it is encouraging that we see through our long-term economic plan, with more and more people in private sector employment than ever before."