Labour market adjustment in areas of chronic industrial decline: The case of the UK coalfields

The paper explores the labour market consequences of the near-terminal decline of employment in the UK coal industry. Despite the job loss; registered unemployment has not risen. Using labour market accounts derived mainly from Census of Population data, the paper examines the roles of migration, commuting, job creation and changes in labour force participation as mediating influences. Substantial 'hidden' male unemployment is exposed, and rates of 'real' unemployment are also calculated.