A LEADING government minister visited Winchester last week (Oct 24) to discuss the city’s strong labour market.

Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith met with business leaders, civic chiefs and local MP Steve Brine after new figures revealed that unemployment in Winchester is half the national average.

Stephen Gates, chair of Hampshire Chamber of Commerce’s Winchester committee, said: “This was an excellent opportunity for Winchester business leaders to discuss what makes Winchester such a strong and vibrant business economy with a cabinet-level minister – and a minister who was prepared to listen and discuss issues constructively.”

Cllr Rob Humby, leader of Winchester City Council, said: “It was great to discuss Winchester’s needs with the Work and Pensions Secretary. We need to make decisions for Winchester at a local level. Although unemployment in the district is relatively low there are pockets where levels are significantly higher.”

After the meeting Mr Duncan Smith made a surprise visit to the Hyde Soldiers exhibition St Bartholomew Church, rounding the evening off by addressing 150 Conservative supporters at a constituency association event in The Winchester Hotel.