Inside Report (4)

UNEMPLOYMENT. Jobless lines could soon be the longest since World War II.

The jobs picture isn't expected to improve quickly. Even if the economy got better tomorrow, unemployment could rise for another six to nine months.

The reason: employers are slow to rehire workers after a downturn. Business wants to be certain things are getting better before adding to payroll costs.

The jobless rate soon is expected to top the 9 percent out of work in May 1975 -- the previous postwar high. It could go to 9.5-10 percent by midyear.