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Further to its previous direct requests, the Committee has noted the detailed information supplied by the Government. It notes that, according to this information, unemployment decreased to 4 per cent in June 1988, and that according to the OECD Austria remains among the low unemployment countries. The Government states that youth unemployment has been falling for demographic reasons, and overall employment has been growing; increased unemployment is, however, thought likely in 1989-90.

The Congress of Austrian Chambers of Labour states in its comments that in view of the rise in unemployment in the 1980s more intensive job-creating measures are needed.

The Committee welcomes recent improvements in the employment situation and is pleased to note the continuing efforts of the Government - especially through implementation of the Konzept 90 programme - in the light of the Government's own relatively negative prognosis. It notes that, whilst the special youth programme is in the circumstances not being pursued, special measures in favour of women workers (who still face difficulties in the labour market) continue. The Committee trusts that in reviewing and implementing structural adjustment policies and measures the Government will ensure the necessary co-ordination and consultation among the various national and local authorities and the organisations and persons affected (Articles 2 and 3 of the Convention). It refers finally to its previous direct request and once more would be grateful if the Government would supply the information mentioned in the report form as to the development of employment in each sector and the employment effects of overall policies in such fields as investment (both public and private), budgetary and monetary policies, international trade (especially in the European region), and prices, incomes and wages.