I am constantly impressed (read: bewildered) how easily high level politicians, like he was, continue to accept the rhetoric from private companies, who's culling actions will adversely effect their very own constituents, and blindly tow the company line that Slashing staff is necessary...
Politicians need to remember who they represent...
Wont ever happen - far more important to remember who owns them.
Any mug that thinks Government exists for any purpose beyond implementing what the Corporations need to feed their greed, is deluding themself.