Partner Article

UK unemployment levels fall to 2.65m

UK unemployment levels have fallen by 35,000 to 2.65 million, according to the Office of National Statistics.

During the period between December and February, unemployment fell from a 12 year high of 8.4% to 8.3% - the lowest levels since summer 2011.

However, the claimant count rose by 3,600 in March to 1.61 million, the highest claimant count since October 2009.

The number of younger jobseekers also fell, with figures indicating that the number of unemployed 16-24 year olds had fallen to 1.03 million. Youth unemployment still stands at 22.2%.

Director-General of the CBI Dr Neil Bentley welcomed the news, which indicated that the private sector is gradually regaining confidence to hire staff.

He commented: “While this is the best jobs news we’ve had in a year, the Government must step up its welfare reform programme.

“Worryingly, over a third of those unemployed have been out of work for more than 12 months.

“With youth jobless numbers still stubbornly high, helping young people find jobs must remain a joint priority for businesses and government.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .