Unemployment in the UK continues to fall despite siren voices in the media who can't help but mention the word recession in any economic report.

It seems that commentators are stuck using the language of the eighties when millions of jobs were lost at the hands of the Tories as a boom built on sand collapsed.

It is true to say that the economy in the USA is not performing as well as before but in Britain, we are well set to ride out any difficulties this may cause.

Low inflation, low interest rates, stable growth, an independent Bank of England and responsible spending plans based on realistic income calculations mean that no serious forecaster is predicting a recession here.

Locally, the number of people out of work and claiming benefits fell again over the summer and this is having some worrying results.

First Midland Red found that their wages and work patterns are no longer competitive and with more job choice around, they are losing drivers fast.

I have written to both First Midland Red and the parent company, First Group, seeking improvements in terms and conditions for drivers and I am delighted that they have announced a review of their terms and conditions.

Without changes, Redditch people will suffer further cuts in their bus services.

All of us should look at the opportunities low unemployment offers us.

Even those for whom work is not a simple matter. Groups like lone parents, disabled people and those over 50 have within them numbers of people who want to work but face barriers and discrimination.

The Government is committed to overcoming these barriers and discrimination and ensuring that working pays so that work is a realistic option for as many in our society as possible.