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Stella Creasy gets on to the ballot for Labour deputy leadrship - Politics live Stella Creasy gets on to the ballot for Labour deputy leadrship - Politics live
(36 minutes later)
12.39pm BST12:39
Sir George Howarth, a Conservative, praises Osborne for his long-term economic plan. He urges Osborne to spend 2% of GDP on defence. Defence of the realm should be the number one priority of the government, he says.
Osborne says the government will set out its plans at the spending review.
Today is the 75th anniversary of the sinking of RMS Lancastria in the second world war, he says. It caused the biggest loss of life in a British sinking ever, and it was kept quiet during the war, he says. He says we should remember the victims today.
And that’s it.
I’ll post a verdict shortly.
12.34pm BST12:34
Labour’s Jim Dowd asks about the way writers are losing out from the calculation of public lending right because so many libraries are run by volunteers.
Osborne says he is happy to look at this issue.
12.33pm BST12:33
Osborne says, after 32 minutes, there has been not a single question from Labour on jobs.
12.32pm BST12:32
Osborne says tackling the problem of the radicalisation of young people is not something that will be solved easily, or perhaps even in this parliament. It requires parties to work together.
12.29pm BST12:29
Labour’s Judith Cummins asks what the government is doing to tackle knife crimes in schools.
Osborne says teachers have been given powers to search bags. But if more can be done in the light of the lessons learnt from the attack on a teacher in Bradford, it will be done.
12.25pm BST12:25
Andrew Tyrie, a Conservative, says today’s election for select committee chairs are a success for parliament as a whole. (There is cheering, because Tyrie has been re-elected unopposed as chair of the Treasury committee.) Will David Cameron appear before the liaison committee more than three times a year?
Osborne says he will pass the message on.
12.23pm BST12:23
Labour’s Jess Phillips asks for an assurance that women living in refugees will not be included in housing benefit cuts.
Osborne says the government made it clear, when it published its housing benefit plans, that vulnerable people, like abused women, would be protected.
But Britain needs to curb welfare spending, he says.
12.21pm BST12:21
The Green’s Caroline Lucas says there is a mass climate change lobby at Westminster today. Should the parliamentary pension fund divest from fossil fuels?
Osborne says what happens to that pension fund is “way above my pay grade”. But Britain will play its full part in setting climate change targets at the Paris talks later this year. It should be done in the cheapest possible way for consumers.
12.19pm BST12:1912.19pm BST12:19
Labour’s Geraint Davies asks if waste water from fracking will be properly treated so it is safe to drink again.Labour’s Geraint Davies asks if waste water from fracking will be properly treated so it is safe to drink again.
Osborne says proper standards will apply. But we should pursue fracking, he says. He does not want to be part of a country that sees economic activity happening elsewhere.Osborne says proper standards will apply. But we should pursue fracking, he says. He does not want to be part of a country that sees economic activity happening elsewhere.
12.18pm BST12:1812.18pm BST12:18
Richard Harrington, a Conservative, asks about apprenticeships.Richard Harrington, a Conservative, asks about apprenticeships.
Osborne says Harrington is the apprenticeship adviser to the prime minister. It’s an important job, he says.Osborne says Harrington is the apprenticeship adviser to the prime minister. It’s an important job, he says.
12.17pm BST12:1712.17pm BST12:17
Labour’s David Lammy says the number of reported rapes has risen by 68% in the last 10 years in London. Will the government give the police more resources?Labour’s David Lammy says the number of reported rapes has risen by 68% in the last 10 years in London. Will the government give the police more resources?
Osborne says the police are focusing more on these heinous crimes. He is prepared to consider extra requests for resources.Osborne says the police are focusing more on these heinous crimes. He is prepared to consider extra requests for resources.
12.15pm BST12:1512.15pm BST12:15
The SNP’s Angus Robertson asks if it is true that the Chilcot report has been delayed until next year.The SNP’s Angus Robertson asks if it is true that the Chilcot report has been delayed until next year.
Osborne says the Chilcot inquiry is independent. But he says people are running out of patience.Osborne says the Chilcot inquiry is independent. But he says people are running out of patience.
Robertson says Osborne voted for the war. Does he feel he has no moral or political responsibility to get to the bottom of what happened? And what is he going to do about it?Robertson says Osborne voted for the war. Does he feel he has no moral or political responsibility to get to the bottom of what happened? And what is he going to do about it?
Osborne says he voted for the inquiry. Chilcot will have heard the views of the Commons. The inquiry is independent. “But I think it should get on with it,” he says.Osborne says he voted for the inquiry. Chilcot will have heard the views of the Commons. The inquiry is independent. “But I think it should get on with it,” he says.
12.13pm BST12:1312.13pm BST12:13
Osborne says unemployment is down again, employment is up, and wages are growing faster than before the great recession.Osborne says unemployment is down again, employment is up, and wages are growing faster than before the great recession.
12.12pm BST12:1212.12pm BST12:12
Benn asks what expectations the government has for talks about refugees in Geneva.Benn asks what expectations the government has for talks about refugees in Geneva.
Osborne says Britain can be proud of its aid spending.Osborne says Britain can be proud of its aid spending.
Benn says the deployment of HMS Buwark is under active review. Will the government continue to keep it in the Mediterranean saving the lives of refugees.Benn says the deployment of HMS Buwark is under active review. Will the government continue to keep it in the Mediterranean saving the lives of refugees.
Osborne says essential maintenance has to be carried out, but Britain will continue to play its part in the search and rescue mission. Rescue operations are essential. But you have to stop people wanting to come to Europe, he says.Osborne says essential maintenance has to be carried out, but Britain will continue to play its part in the search and rescue mission. Rescue operations are essential. But you have to stop people wanting to come to Europe, he says.
12.09pm BST12:0912.09pm BST12:09
Benn asks if training is being provided to bodies that need to apply these counter-terrorism moves.Benn asks if training is being provided to bodies that need to apply these counter-terrorism moves.
Yes, says Osborne, it is. He says he hopes Labour will support the extremism bill.Yes, says Osborne, it is. He says he hopes Labour will support the extremism bill.
Benn says Isis (which he calls Isil) is the common enemy. Will the government encourage countries in the region to cooperate against it.Benn says Isis (which he calls Isil) is the common enemy. Will the government encourage countries in the region to cooperate against it.
Osborne says the government is playing a leading role in this. There have been reports in recent days that leading figures in Isis have been killed. In Syria Britain supports the moderate opposition.Osborne says the government is playing a leading role in this. There have been reports in recent days that leading figures in Isis have been killed. In Syria Britain supports the moderate opposition.
12.07pm BST12:0712.07pm BST12:07
Hilary Benn congratulates Osborne on being first secretary of state. He asks what the government is doing to stop young people travelling abroad to join Islamic State (Isis).Hilary Benn congratulates Osborne on being first secretary of state. He asks what the government is doing to stop young people travelling abroad to join Islamic State (Isis).
Osborne congratulates Benn on speaking for his party. His father would be proud, he says. He says the Tories are glad there is no Benn in the Labour leadership contest, but there is a Bennite.Osborne congratulates Benn on speaking for his party. His father would be proud, he says. He says the Tories are glad there is no Benn in the Labour leadership contest, but there is a Bennite.
He says people will be very concerned about young people going to Syria and Iraq. The intelligence services need more powers, he says.He says people will be very concerned about young people going to Syria and Iraq. The intelligence services need more powers, he says.
Benn says the intelligence and security committee said counter-terrorism programmes were not working. Why?Benn says the intelligence and security committee said counter-terrorism programmes were not working. Why?
Osborne says that under the Labour there was a confusion between community cohesion programmes and counter-terrorism programmes. There is now a new duty on universities to tackle extremism.Osborne says that under the Labour there was a confusion between community cohesion programmes and counter-terrorism programmes. There is now a new duty on universities to tackle extremism.
12.04pm BST12:0412.04pm BST12:04
Nigel Huddleston, a Conservative, says the government has given freedom to pensioners to spend their money. Will Osborne make sure the industry gives people access to their money?Nigel Huddleston, a Conservative, says the government has given freedom to pensioners to spend their money. Will Osborne make sure the industry gives people access to their money?
Osborne says some firms are not doing their part. The government is considering a cap on charges. The Financial Conduct Authority has been asked to investigate.Osborne says some firms are not doing their part. The government is considering a cap on charges. The Financial Conduct Authority has been asked to investigate.
12.02pm BST12:0212.02pm BST12:02
Labour’s Heidi Alexander says the construction of socially-rented homes has fallen to a 20-year low. But more landlords are getting housing benefit. Does George Osborne understand the connection?Labour’s Heidi Alexander says the construction of socially-rented homes has fallen to a 20-year low. But more landlords are getting housing benefit. Does George Osborne understand the connection?
Osborne says the government built more council housing in the last five years than Labour did in 13 years. He says the economic plan is working.Osborne says the government built more council housing in the last five years than Labour did in 13 years. He says the economic plan is working.
12.00pm BST12:0012.00pm BST12:00
Osborne at PMQsOsborne at PMQs
George Osborne is about to take PMQs.George Osborne is about to take PMQs.
11.59am BST11:5911.59am BST11:59
Angela Eagle and Ben Bradshaw also on Labour deputy leadership ballot, Umunna saysAngela Eagle and Ben Bradshaw also on Labour deputy leadership ballot, Umunna says
According to Chuka Umunna, Angela Eagle and Ben Bradshaw are on the ballot too.According to Chuka Umunna, Angela Eagle and Ben Bradshaw are on the ballot too.
All remaining @UKLabour deputy leadership candidates are now on the ballot after @rushanaraali's withdrawal - big thanks to @rushanaraali!All remaining @UKLabour deputy leadership candidates are now on the ballot after @rushanaraali's withdrawal - big thanks to @rushanaraali!
Updated at 12.00pm BSTUpdated at 12.00pm BST
11.55am BST11:5511.55am BST11:55
Ivan Lewis nominated Stella Creasy for the Labour leadership.Ivan Lewis nominated Stella Creasy for the Labour leadership.
Nominated @stellacreasy to ensure she's on ballot. Impossible to justify denying members chance to see her ability to bring politics alive.Nominated @stellacreasy to ensure she's on ballot. Impossible to justify denying members chance to see her ability to bring politics alive.
And so did David Lammy.And so did David Lammy.
David Lammy is Creasy's 34th nomination.David Lammy is Creasy's 34th nomination.
11.51am BST11:5111.51am BST11:51
Stella Creasy gets on to the ballot for Labour's deputy leaderStella Creasy gets on to the ballot for Labour's deputy leader
Stella Creasy is on the ballot for the Labour deputy leadership.Stella Creasy is on the ballot for the Labour deputy leadership.
Stella Creasy is on the ballot with 35.Stella Creasy is on the ballot with 35.
Updated at 11.56am BSTUpdated at 11.56am BST
11.43am BST11:4311.43am BST11:43
Chuka Umumna has just nominated Stella Creasy.Chuka Umumna has just nominated Stella Creasy.
Just nominated @stellacreasy for deputy leader after @RushanaraAli withdrew. @UKLabour needs as many candidates on the ballot as possJust nominated @stellacreasy for deputy leader after @RushanaraAli withdrew. @UKLabour needs as many candidates on the ballot as poss
My colleague Patrick Wintour predicts that Creasy will make it.My colleague Patrick Wintour predicts that Creasy will make it.
Creasey will now go over the threshold and possible Eagle and Bradshaw now that Ali withdraws. This is about the Labour deputy leader race.Creasey will now go over the threshold and possible Eagle and Bradshaw now that Ali withdraws. This is about the Labour deputy leader race.
11.41am BST11:4111.41am BST11:41
Rushanara Ali pulls out. Chuka Umunna has pulled out. Barring a Rachel Dolezal move from Tom Watson, it's an all-white field.Rushanara Ali pulls out. Chuka Umunna has pulled out. Barring a Rachel Dolezal move from Tom Watson, it's an all-white field.
11.40am BST11:4011.40am BST11:40
Rushanara Ali has withdrawn from the Labour leadership contest, Stephen Bush reports. That means her 24 votes are up for grabs.Rushanara Ali has withdrawn from the Labour leadership contest, Stephen Bush reports. That means her 24 votes are up for grabs.
Rushanara Ali has withdrawn!Rushanara Ali has withdrawn!
Updated at 11.41am BSTUpdated at 11.41am BST
11.31am BST11:3111.31am BST11:31
Here is the top line from the Number 10 lobby briefing.Here is the top line from the Number 10 lobby briefing.
Downing Street spokesperson says David Cameron is "stepping up" preparations for a possible Greek exit from the euro zoneDowning Street spokesperson says David Cameron is "stepping up" preparations for a possible Greek exit from the euro zone
11.25am BST11:2511.25am BST11:25
Angela Eagle has got another nomination.Angela Eagle has got another nomination.
Daniel Zeichner has nominated Angela Eagle. Creasy 30, Eagle 26, Bradshaw 25, Ali 24. http://t.co/PgnUYqvgjmDaniel Zeichner has nominated Angela Eagle. Creasy 30, Eagle 26, Bradshaw 25, Ali 24. http://t.co/PgnUYqvgjm
11.17am BST11:1711.17am BST11:17
Unemployment figures by regionUnemployment figures by region
Here are the unemployment figures by region.Here are the unemployment figures by region.
Region - total unemployed - change on previous quarter - rate as percentageRegion - total unemployed - change on previous quarter - rate as percentage
North East - 95,000 - down 5,000 - 7.4%North East - 95,000 - down 5,000 - 7.4%
North West - 203,000 - down 16,000 - 5.7%North West - 203,000 - down 16,000 - 5.7%
Yorkshire/Humber - 185,000 - up 24,000 - 6.9%Yorkshire/Humber - 185,000 - up 24,000 - 6.9%
East Midlands - 115,000 - down 2,000 - 4.9%East Midlands - 115,000 - down 2,000 - 4.9%
West Midlands - 177,000 - down 5,000 - 6.4%West Midlands - 177,000 - down 5,000 - 6.4%
East of England - 136,000 - down 22,000 - 4.4%East of England - 136,000 - down 22,000 - 4.4%
London - 286,000 - up 2,000 - 6.3%London - 286,000 - up 2,000 - 6.3%
South East - 189,000 - down 20,000 - 4.1%South East - 189,000 - down 20,000 - 4.1%
South West - 117,000 - down 5,000 - 4.2%South West - 117,000 - down 5,000 - 4.2%
Wales - 95,000 - up 3,000 - 6.4%Wales - 95,000 - up 3,000 - 6.4%
Scotland - 163,000 - up 1,000 - 5.9%Scotland - 163,000 - up 1,000 - 5.9%
Northern Ireland - 54,000 - up 2,000 - 6.1%Northern Ireland - 54,000 - up 2,000 - 6.1%
11.09am BST11:0911.09am BST11:09
Here is some Twitter reaction to the earnings figures.Here is some Twitter reaction to the earnings figures.
From Newsnight’s economics correspondent Duncan WeldonFrom Newsnight’s economics correspondent Duncan Weldon
Employment rate plateauing at record highs but shift within that away from self employment/part-time to regular employment & full-time work.Employment rate plateauing at record highs but shift within that away from self employment/part-time to regular employment & full-time work.
This shift to more full time employee jobs & away from involuntary part-time & self employment is probably pushing average wages up.This shift to more full time employee jobs & away from involuntary part-time & self employment is probably pushing average wages up.
At the moment the UK has decent real wage growth & still seems to be lacking decent productivity growth. That can't last forever.At the moment the UK has decent real wage growth & still seems to be lacking decent productivity growth. That can't last forever.
From the Sunday Times’s economics editor, David SmithFrom the Sunday Times’s economics editor, David Smith
Private sector driving pay growth - up 3.3%. Public sector 0.3%, or 1.3% excluding publicly-owned banks: http://t.co/dCrHcYiZbJPrivate sector driving pay growth - up 3.3%. Public sector 0.3%, or 1.3% excluding publicly-owned banks: http://t.co/dCrHcYiZbJ
From the Financial Times’s economics editor, Chris GilesFrom the Financial Times’s economics editor, Chris Giles
The divergence will make public spending cuts more difficult https://t.co/AoKfUyW1FDThe divergence will make public spending cuts more difficult https://t.co/AoKfUyW1FD
10.59am BST10:5910.59am BST10:59
Here is Diane Abbott tweeting about nominating Stella Creasy.Here is Diane Abbott tweeting about nominating Stella Creasy.
Just nominated Stella Creasy for deputy leader. Important to have the widest possible debate pic.twitter.com/Q9wHry3DJRJust nominated Stella Creasy for deputy leader. Important to have the widest possible debate pic.twitter.com/Q9wHry3DJR
10.58am BST10:5810.58am BST10:58
Stella Creasy has got two more nominations, according to the New Statesman’s Stephen Bush. She is now just five MPs short of getting her name on the ballot.Stella Creasy has got two more nominations, according to the New Statesman’s Stephen Bush. She is now just five MPs short of getting her name on the ballot.
Madeleine Moon is backing Stella Creasy for deputy. She requires a further six names. #labourleadershipMadeleine Moon is backing Stella Creasy for deputy. She requires a further six names. #labourleadership
My MP @HackneyAbbott is nominating Stella Creasy. She now needs just five names. http://t.co/PgnUYqvgjmMy MP @HackneyAbbott is nominating Stella Creasy. She now needs just five names. http://t.co/PgnUYqvgjm
10.57am BST10:5710.57am BST10:57
Here is Frances O’Grady, the TUC general secretary, on the unemployment and earnings figures.Here is Frances O’Grady, the TUC general secretary, on the unemployment and earnings figures.
Although today’s improvements are welcome, there is still a long way to go for youth unemployment and underemployment. Real wage growth remains too reliant on low inflation, and even if prices remain exceptionally low we are facing a lost decade on pay growth.Although today’s improvements are welcome, there is still a long way to go for youth unemployment and underemployment. Real wage growth remains too reliant on low inflation, and even if prices remain exceptionally low we are facing a lost decade on pay growth.
The weaknesses in the labour market that remain behind the headlines should not be swept under the carpet. The government must set clear goals this parliament to bring down youth unemployment and underemployment, and ensure that everyone who needs work has access to a secure and fairly paid job.The weaknesses in the labour market that remain behind the headlines should not be swept under the carpet. The government must set clear goals this parliament to bring down youth unemployment and underemployment, and ensure that everyone who needs work has access to a secure and fairly paid job.
10.54am BST10:5410.54am BST10:54
There’s no news yet as to whether Stella Creasy will make the Labour deputy leadership ballot, although, on Twitter, her supporters are speaking out.There’s no news yet as to whether Stella Creasy will make the Labour deputy leadership ballot, although, on Twitter, her supporters are speaking out.
This is from Dan Jarvis MP.This is from Dan Jarvis MP.
There will be a lot of very unhappy #Labour members today if @stellacreasy is not on Dep Ldr ballot #stella4deputy pic.twitter.com/Habyz3rufCThere will be a lot of very unhappy #Labour members today if @stellacreasy is not on Dep Ldr ballot #stella4deputy pic.twitter.com/Habyz3rufC
And here are two journalists from opposite ends of the Labour spectrum.And here are two journalists from opposite ends of the Labour spectrum.
Ah come on Labour MPs. It'll just look silly if @stellacreasy isn't on the ballot paperAh come on Labour MPs. It'll just look silly if @stellacreasy isn't on the ballot paper
To be able to get @jeremycorbyn on the leadership ballot but not @stellacreasy on the dep leadership would say all the wrong things.To be able to get @jeremycorbyn on the leadership ballot but not @stellacreasy on the dep leadership would say all the wrong things.
10.45am BST10:4510.45am BST10:45
The Resolution Foundation, the low-pay thinktank, has put out a news release saying that ultra-low inflation is responsible for the wage growth we are seeing today and that this may not last long. Here’s an extract.The Resolution Foundation, the low-pay thinktank, has put out a news release saying that ultra-low inflation is responsible for the wage growth we are seeing today and that this may not last long. Here’s an extract.
Strengthening pay and ultra-low inflation mean that real wages are now rising more quickly in real-terms than before the financial crisis. But this rebound may prove short-lived as inflation begins to pick up, the Resolution Foundation said today, in response to the latest ONS labour market figures.Strengthening pay and ultra-low inflation mean that real wages are now rising more quickly in real-terms than before the financial crisis. But this rebound may prove short-lived as inflation begins to pick up, the Resolution Foundation said today, in response to the latest ONS labour market figures.
Year-on-year growth in regular pay of 2.7 per cent, combined with inflation of -0.1 per cent, means real earnings growth increased to 2.8 per cent in the three months to April 2015. Since August 2002 this rate of growth has only been exceeded once – in September 2007. Real growth averaged 2.2 per cent over the pre-crisis (2001-2007) period.Year-on-year growth in regular pay of 2.7 per cent, combined with inflation of -0.1 per cent, means real earnings growth increased to 2.8 per cent in the three months to April 2015. Since August 2002 this rate of growth has only been exceeded once – in September 2007. Real growth averaged 2.2 per cent over the pre-crisis (2001-2007) period.
Underpinning this rebound is strong pay performance in parts of the private sector (3.3 per cent real growth), with growth of 4 per cent in the low paying retail and hospitality sector and 4 per cent in construction. In contrast, pay was up just 1.1 per cent in manufacturing and 1.1 per cent in the public sector.Underpinning this rebound is strong pay performance in parts of the private sector (3.3 per cent real growth), with growth of 4 per cent in the low paying retail and hospitality sector and 4 per cent in construction. In contrast, pay was up just 1.1 per cent in manufacturing and 1.1 per cent in the public sector.
Real wage growth has built strongly over the course of 2015, but the Foundation expects this momentum to ease off in the coming months as inflation edges up, reflecting the fact that nominal pay growth remains well below its pre-crisis level. According to the Bank of England’s last forecast, real wage growth will have fallen back below the pre-crash norm by the end of the year.Real wage growth has built strongly over the course of 2015, but the Foundation expects this momentum to ease off in the coming months as inflation edges up, reflecting the fact that nominal pay growth remains well below its pre-crisis level. According to the Bank of England’s last forecast, real wage growth will have fallen back below the pre-crash norm by the end of the year.
It also points out that average earnings remain around £30 a week below their pre-crisis peak.It also points out that average earnings remain around £30 a week below their pre-crisis peak.
And it has produced this chart too, showing how the labour market has changed since 2008.And it has produced this chart too, showing how the labour market has changed since 2008.
10.28am BST10:2810.28am BST10:28
Here is Stephen Timms, Labour’s acting shadow work and pensions secretary (because Rachel Reeves is on maternity leave) on the unemployment figures.Here is Stephen Timms, Labour’s acting shadow work and pensions secretary (because Rachel Reeves is on maternity leave) on the unemployment figures.
The fall in overall unemployment is welcome, but with more than 740,000 young people unemployed it’s clear the government needs to do far more to give young people the chance to earn a living.The fall in overall unemployment is welcome, but with more than 740,000 young people unemployed it’s clear the government needs to do far more to give young people the chance to earn a living.
Ministers are failing to ensure young people get the best start in life. Last year the number of under 25-year-olds starting an apprenticeship fell. It’s time for ministers to give young people the world-class apprenticeships and training they need to succeed in life.Ministers are failing to ensure young people get the best start in life. Last year the number of under 25-year-olds starting an apprenticeship fell. It’s time for ministers to give young people the world-class apprenticeships and training they need to succeed in life.
10.25am BST10:2510.25am BST10:25
Private sector workforce 2.4m bigger than in 2010Private sector workforce 2.4m bigger than in 2010
In its news release, the Department for Work and Pensions has highlighted other “good news” in the employment figures, beyond the fall in unemployment and the increase in wage growth. (See 9.53am.) Here are some of the points they highlight.In its news release, the Department for Work and Pensions has highlighted other “good news” in the employment figures, beyond the fall in unemployment and the increase in wage growth. (See 9.53am.) Here are some of the points they highlight.
All this will be very good news for George Osborne when he stands in at the despatch box at 12pm. As a political strategist, he will be particularly interested in the first figure (about the increase in the size of the private sector workforce). As Peter Kellner pointed out in a very useful election analysis, private sector workers are far more likely to vote Tory than public sector workers.All this will be very good news for George Osborne when he stands in at the despatch box at 12pm. As a political strategist, he will be particularly interested in the first figure (about the increase in the size of the private sector workforce). As Peter Kellner pointed out in a very useful election analysis, private sector workers are far more likely to vote Tory than public sector workers.
10.09am BST10:0910.09am BST10:09
Here is James Sproule, chief economist at the Institute of Directors, on the unemployment and wages figures. (See 9.53am.)Here is James Sproule, chief economist at the Institute of Directors, on the unemployment and wages figures. (See 9.53am.)
With real wages growing and unemployment continuing to fall, today’s figures indicate the UK economy is well along the road of recovery. Falling energy prices and low inflation have eased the pressure on companies and boosted their balance sheets. Many are now able to pass these benefits on to their staff through pay rises and bonuses.With real wages growing and unemployment continuing to fall, today’s figures indicate the UK economy is well along the road of recovery. Falling energy prices and low inflation have eased the pressure on companies and boosted their balance sheets. Many are now able to pass these benefits on to their staff through pay rises and bonuses.
During the downturn, businesses made the difficult decision to preserve jobs and asked that employees forsake pay rises. The strength of the recovery proves this was the right choice. Encouragingly, pay rises are being handed out in a manner which is both sustainable and in line with long-term productivity trends. As the labour market continues to tighten and competition for jobs heats up, real wage growth should remain entrenched for some time to come.During the downturn, businesses made the difficult decision to preserve jobs and asked that employees forsake pay rises. The strength of the recovery proves this was the right choice. Encouragingly, pay rises are being handed out in a manner which is both sustainable and in line with long-term productivity trends. As the labour market continues to tighten and competition for jobs heats up, real wage growth should remain entrenched for some time to come.
10.01am BST10:0110.01am BST10:01
Nigel Farage, the Ukip leader, told LBC this morning that, although he was “prepared” to lead the No (to staying in the EU) campaign in the referendum, he thought someone from outside politics should take that role.Nigel Farage, the Ukip leader, told LBC this morning that, although he was “prepared” to lead the No (to staying in the EU) campaign in the referendum, he thought someone from outside politics should take that role.
The role of Ukip, the role of myself will be important. That’s not saying that I have to take the lead. I would be prepared to of course. But I suspect what we will see is somebody coming from completely outside of normal politics, somebody from the world of business or entertainment that hasn’t got any political baggage at all. I think someone like that may well emerge.The role of Ukip, the role of myself will be important. That’s not saying that I have to take the lead. I would be prepared to of course. But I suspect what we will see is somebody coming from completely outside of normal politics, somebody from the world of business or entertainment that hasn’t got any political baggage at all. I think someone like that may well emerge.
9.53am BST09:539.53am BST09:53
Wage growth highest in real terms since October 2007Wage growth highest in real terms since October 2007
Here is the start of the Press Association story about the unemployment figures.Here is the start of the Press Association story about the unemployment figures.
Wage rises have reached their highest rate for nearly four years, official figures showed today.Wage rises have reached their highest rate for nearly four years, official figures showed today.
Total pay climbed by 2.7% compared with a year earlier in the three months to April, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.Total pay climbed by 2.7% compared with a year earlier in the three months to April, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.
It was the biggest rise since August 2011, and up from a revised 2.3% in the three months to March.It was the biggest rise since August 2011, and up from a revised 2.3% in the three months to March.
Ultra-low inflation - which fell to minus 0.1% in April - means the surge in pay is worth more in real terms.Ultra-low inflation - which fell to minus 0.1% in April - means the surge in pay is worth more in real terms.
The growth in real wages for the period, at 2.8%, is the highest since October 2007.The growth in real wages for the period, at 2.8%, is the highest since October 2007.
Meanwhile, the ONS figures showed unemployment fell by 43,000 to 1.81 million in the three months to April compared to the prior three months while the jobless rate was down to 5.5%, from 5.7%.Meanwhile, the ONS figures showed unemployment fell by 43,000 to 1.81 million in the three months to April compared to the prior three months while the jobless rate was down to 5.5%, from 5.7%.
The unemployment figure was last lower in the three months to August 2008.The unemployment figure was last lower in the three months to August 2008.
The number of people in work rose to 31.05m, 114,000 more than in the three months to January.The number of people in work rose to 31.05m, 114,000 more than in the three months to January.
Numbers claiming unemployment-related benefits in May - under a new measure including both those on Jobseeker’s Allowance and some of those receiving Universal Credit - fell 6,500 to 791,800.Numbers claiming unemployment-related benefits in May - under a new measure including both those on Jobseeker’s Allowance and some of those receiving Universal Credit - fell 6,500 to 791,800.
This was the smallest fall since February 2013.This was the smallest fall since February 2013.
ONS statistician Nick Palmer said: “Total pay is now up 2.7% on the year, the sharpest rate of growth since summer 2011.ONS statistician Nick Palmer said: “Total pay is now up 2.7% on the year, the sharpest rate of growth since summer 2011.
“Meanwhile employment continues to rise and unemployment to fall, maintaining the general trend of the last three and a half years.”“Meanwhile employment continues to rise and unemployment to fall, maintaining the general trend of the last three and a half years.”
9.38am BST09:389.38am BST09:38
Unemployment down to 5.5%Unemployment down to 5.5%
Here are the headline unemployment figures.Here are the headline unemployment figures.
Here is the Office for National Statistics summary. And here is the ONS statistical bulletin, with the full details (pdf).Here is the Office for National Statistics summary. And here is the ONS statistical bulletin, with the full details (pdf).
9.33am BST09:339.33am BST09:33
According to Paddy Power, 90% of the money bet on the Labour deputy leadership in the last week and a half has been on Tom Watson. He is the 4/5 favourite, behind Carline Flint on 7/2, Stella Creasy on 4/1, and Angela Eagle and Rushanara Ali on 10/1.According to Paddy Power, 90% of the money bet on the Labour deputy leadership in the last week and a half has been on Tom Watson. He is the 4/5 favourite, behind Carline Flint on 7/2, Stella Creasy on 4/1, and Angela Eagle and Rushanara Ali on 10/1.
9.09am BST09:099.09am BST09:09
But, according to the Tory MP Chris Heaton-Harris, there is also a campaign to keep Creasy off the ballot. He tweeted this yesterday.But, according to the Tory MP Chris Heaton-Harris, there is also a campaign to keep Creasy off the ballot. He tweeted this yesterday.
Am watching political machines at work. Govt 1 on the EU Ref Bill, Labour one trying to stop @stellacreasy getting on the Dep Leader ballot.Am watching political machines at work. Govt 1 on the EU Ref Bill, Labour one trying to stop @stellacreasy getting on the Dep Leader ballot.
9.08am BST09:089.08am BST09:08
I guess this counts as a celebrity endorsement for Stella Creasy.I guess this counts as a celebrity endorsement for Stella Creasy.
MPs still deciding who to vote for as Labour's new deputy - @stellacreasy looks like the future to me. Foe of Wonga, grassroots campaigner.MPs still deciding who to vote for as Labour's new deputy - @stellacreasy looks like the future to me. Foe of Wonga, grassroots campaigner.
Online, the “get Creasy on the ballot” campaign seems reasonably active.Online, the “get Creasy on the ballot” campaign seems reasonably active.
29 MPs still to nominate, a few hours left. Please let these Labour MPs know you want @stellacreasy on the ballot pic.twitter.com/VeB1llh6T229 MPs still to nominate, a few hours left. Please let these Labour MPs know you want @stellacreasy on the ballot pic.twitter.com/VeB1llh6T2
8.58am BST08:588.58am BST08:58
We’re going to see George Osborne take PMQs for the first time today. In a very good Guardian column, Rafael Behr has an elegant explanation.We’re going to see George Osborne take PMQs for the first time today. In a very good Guardian column, Rafael Behr has an elegant explanation.
In the hierarchy of people who matter to David Cameron these days, the entire Labour party sits well below the prime minister of Luxembourg. Since renegotiation of Britain’s EU membership will require unanimous support from 27 other member states, the hostility of a single head of government could sink the whole plan. So instead of taking questions in the House of Commons tomorrow, Cameron is courting Italy’s prime minister Matteo Renzi in the morning, followed by dinner with Xavier Bettel of Luxembourg.In the hierarchy of people who matter to David Cameron these days, the entire Labour party sits well below the prime minister of Luxembourg. Since renegotiation of Britain’s EU membership will require unanimous support from 27 other member states, the hostility of a single head of government could sink the whole plan. So instead of taking questions in the House of Commons tomorrow, Cameron is courting Italy’s prime minister Matteo Renzi in the morning, followed by dinner with Xavier Bettel of Luxembourg.
As first secretary of state, as well as chancellor, which makes him deputy prime minister in all but name, Osborne is Cameron’s stand-in. It will be worth watching closely because taking PMQs regularly is now clearly party of Osborne’s long-term career planning. Labour are putting up Hilary Benn to oppose him.As first secretary of state, as well as chancellor, which makes him deputy prime minister in all but name, Osborne is Cameron’s stand-in. It will be worth watching closely because taking PMQs regularly is now clearly party of Osborne’s long-term career planning. Labour are putting up Hilary Benn to oppose him.
Before that, we’ve got a mini race to see whether any more candidates can make it onto the ballot for the Labour deputy leadership. Tom Watson and Caroline Flint already have the nominations they need, but Stella Creasy, Angela Eagle, Rushanara Ali and Ben Bradshaw are all short of the 35 names they need. Creasy seems to have the best chance; she is is on 28, making her seven short. According to the New Statesman’s list, Eagle currently has 25 backers, Ali 24 and Bradshaw 21.Before that, we’ve got a mini race to see whether any more candidates can make it onto the ballot for the Labour deputy leadership. Tom Watson and Caroline Flint already have the nominations they need, but Stella Creasy, Angela Eagle, Rushanara Ali and Ben Bradshaw are all short of the 35 names they need. Creasy seems to have the best chance; she is is on 28, making her seven short. According to the New Statesman’s list, Eagle currently has 25 backers, Ali 24 and Bradshaw 21.
Tonight we’ve got the first televised hustings for the Labour leadership. It starts at 7pm. I will be covering that on a separate live blog, which I will launch at around 6pm.Tonight we’ve got the first televised hustings for the Labour leadership. It starts at 7pm. I will be covering that on a separate live blog, which I will launch at around 6pm.
Here is the agenda for the day.Here is the agenda for the day.
9.30am: Unemployment figures are released.9.30am: Unemployment figures are released.
10.50am: Nigel Farage, the Ukip leader, and William Dartmouth, the Ukip MEP, launch a pamphlet called “The Truth about Trade Beyond the EU.”10.50am: Nigel Farage, the Ukip leader, and William Dartmouth, the Ukip MEP, launch a pamphlet called “The Truth about Trade Beyond the EU.”
12pm: Nominations close for the Labour deputy leadership.12pm: Nominations close for the Labour deputy leadership.
12pm: George Osborne faces Hilary Benn at PMQs.12pm: George Osborne faces Hilary Benn at PMQs.
Cameron will be in Milan, meeting his Italian prime minister Matteo Renzi, before going to Luxembourg to meet the prime minister, Xavier Bettel.Cameron will be in Milan, meeting his Italian prime minister Matteo Renzi, before going to Luxembourg to meet the prime minister, Xavier Bettel.
As usual I will be covering the breaking political news as it happens, as well as bringing you the best reaction, comment and analysis from the web. I will post a summary at lunchtime and another in the afternoon.As usual I will be covering the breaking political news as it happens, as well as bringing you the best reaction, comment and analysis from the web. I will post a summary at lunchtime and another in the afternoon.
If you want to follow me on Twitter, I’m on @AndrewSparrowIf you want to follow me on Twitter, I’m on @AndrewSparrow