REC Responds to Labour Market Statistics

Commenting on today’s publication of labour market statistics by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), which reports data for October - December 2016, Recruitment & Employment Confederation Chief Executive Kevin Green says: 

“The employment rate is the highest since records began with 300,000 more people in jobs in the last year. However, employers are struggling to find and retain the people they need to do the jobs available, particularly in sectors like food manufacturing, hospitality and healthcare, which are heavily reliant on EU workers. The latest data shows a small fall in the number of EU nationals working in the UK – if this becomes a trend over the coming months these businesses will feel even more pressure.  

“The falling economic inactivity rate could be a sign that older workers, particularly older women, are returning to the workforce. But there’s only so far this can go to help alleviate the skills shortage. The government needs to develop a long term approach to the UK labour market, which includes encouraging greater participation and increasing skills but also a balanced approach to immigration.”

Ends 

Notes to editors:   

1. For more information, contact the REC Press Office on 0207 009 2157/2192 or pressoffice@rec.uk.com. An ISDN line is available for interviews on 0207 021 0584 
   
2. Full ONS data is available at: https://www.ons.gov.uk/employmentandlabourmarket/peopleinwork/employmentandemployeetypes/bulletins/uklabourmarket/feb2017 
   
3. Jobs transform lives, which is why we are building the best recruitment industry in the world. As the professional body for recruitment we’re determined to make businesses more successful by helping them secure the people they need. We are absolutely passionate and totally committed in this pursuit for recruiters, employers, and the people they hire. Find out more about the Recruitment & Employment Confederation at www.rec.uk.com