I have written recently in a previous blog posting that I recently met
a man,who had applied for over 4,000 jobs. The correct figure is in
fact 4,700. I mentioned this man to an economic journalist from the
Guardian, who interviewed him today at his home in Harlow. It was
particularly relevant on a day in which unemployment was confirmed at
2.5 million.

The truth is that jobs are very hard to come by and the job market is
tightening as we face the economic abyss. The high taxes, hike in
National Insurance Contributions planned by Gordon Brown, and the ever
increasing red tape, all act as an anti-stimulant to businesses to
create jobs. That is why we have to cut business taxes, reduce NI
contributions and make it easier for businesses to hire new employees
on a low tax basis. We need to give young people the skills that they
need through apprenticeships and work placements. Above all,we need to
get the economy back on track, by cutting waste and reducing the
deficit.

Wherever I go around and about Harlow, it is jobs that is one of the
key issues. Too many people have been made redundant and there are too
few employment opportunities are available. We also must ensure that
people have the skills they need.

P.S. It was another exceptionally hectic Wednesday, starting off with
hustings at Harlow College. It was a good debate and quite testing, as
the students were asking some tough questions. Many wanted to know
about jobs, skills and student funding.

After, I met with Sir Alan Haslehurst, MP for Saffron Walden and a
large crew of volunteers. We have been really lucky to have many
Saffron Walden volunteers come over to help in recent weeks and
months. I then went with my campaign team around Harlow visiting a
range of shops from Staple Tye to Hare Street. We were also really
pleased to be interviewed by Anglia TV on the campaign trail. A
fulfilling day.

by Robert Halfon - www.roberthalfon.blogspot.com