AN MP is 'gravely' concerned by the continued rise in unemployment in the community.

Latest figures show that unemployment in August 2019 stood at 1,265.

The total number of unemployed claimants in Delyn constituency in August 2019 was 1,265. This represents a rate of 3.9 per cent of the economically active population aged 16-64.

David Hanson MP said: "We have just had to live through another wasted month which has seen a shocking rise in unemployment. Most shocking of all, we have had to endure a 30 per cent rise in unemployment for our young people.

"These are people who are just starting out in life, trying to make their own way in the world and achieve their dreams and goals.

"The talent and skills of young people in Delyn is being undermined by the UK Government."

The equivalent UK claimant rate was 3.7 per cent. The UK unemployment rate, which includes people not claiming benefits and is estimated from survey data, was 3.8 per cent in May to July 2019.

The number of claimants in Delyn constituency is 255 higher than August 2018 and 20 higher than July 2019.

There were 280 claimants aged 18-24 in August 2019, 65 higher than August 2018.

Mr Hanson added: "This rise in unemployment isn’t just isolated to young people either. Unemployment has also risen by 25 per cent in Delyn as a whole in the past year alone.

"What we need now is investment. Investment in industry, public services and infrastructure. We can unlock growth in Delyn but it needs a supportive UK government.

"I’ve called for the full implementation of the North Wales Growth Deal. But time and time again, the Secretary of State for Wales has dragged his heels and not stood up for us.

"Flintshire County Council and the Welsh Government have been fighting hard against the backdrop of enforced Westminster austerity.

"The refusal of the UK Government to re-distribute wealth from South East England to towns and villages like ours has put us in economic turmoil."