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 June – August 2016, Recruitment & Employment Confederation Head of Policy Kate Shoesmith says:

 

“The UK economy continues to perform well. The employment rate remains at a record high of 74.5 per cent, despite a small rise in the number of people unemployed, according to the latest official figures. The number of economically inactive people has fallen by 65,000. Our Report on Jobs data shows that permanent placements were in growth during August and September, so we expect to see these positive trends continue short-term. However, it’s too early to draw conclusions about the long-term effect of the referendum.

 

“Pay continues to grow at 2.3 per cent, but with inflation on the rise, the concern is whether wage growth can keep up further down the line.

 

“In June the number of public sector workers fell by 13,000. This has been steadily falling since 2010 and latest figures show that the number of people employed in the public sector is at its lowest since records began. This is concerning, especially in areas like healthcare and education where we are already seeing major problems caused by a lack of people to perform vital roles.”

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/october2016
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