ONS shows a robust labour market

The latest Office of National Statistics (ONS) findings have been published, highlighting the UK’s robust labour market.

Commenting on the data, Kate Shoesmith, deputy chief executive of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC), said, “This is a very steady set of job figures and further evidence of the UK’s robust labour market – which is good news, given the global levels of uncertainty right now.

“But when both productivity and economic inactivity are not improving from pre-pandemic levels, we must focus on the fixes.

“Recruiters and business groups still warn that labour shortages are holding back economic growth. Only by working together can employers and government hope to draw more people, from a range of backgrounds, into the labour force.”

Kate added, “Next month’s Spring Budget is the opportunity for government to provide further stability, clarity and much needed support so that the economy can thrive despite the now stubborn labour shortages.

“Improving childcare support and provision to enable more parents to work and older workers such as grandparents to stay in work is vital, as is reinvigorating welfare to work schemes.

“Where investment is needed, the government should keep in mind that the return will be far greater over the medium and long-term, helping to save money and boost growth. A failure to address shortages will only constrain growth and feed inflation.”

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