- In the three months to September 2014, employment rose by 112,000 compared with the previous three months
- Unemployment fell by 115,000 compared with the previous three months
- The unemployment rate was 6.0%, down from 6.3% in the previous three months, and the lowest since late 2008
- Youth unemployment was 16.2%, down from 16.9% in the previous three months
- Pay including bonuses was 1.0% higher than a year earlier, while pay excluding bonuses was 1.3% higher than a year earlier
Commenting on the latest labour market statistics for November 2014, published today by the ONS, David Kern, Chief Economist at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said:
“These figures highlight once again that the UK labour market remains strong, and that the pace of economic growth continues at a steady pace. Pay rises have increased but remain weak, and living standards are still under pressure. Despite this, these figures suggest that there is considerable scope for the economy to continue expanding steadily. Both the MPC and the government must make every attempt to counter signs of a slowdown – and next month’s Autumn Statement will be an opportunity for the government to take bold action and support growth and enterprise.”
Employment Minister Esther McVey said: “Record numbers of people in work means more people with the security of a regular wage who are better able to support themselves and their families. “With the vast majority of the rise in employment over the last year being full-time, it’s clear that thanks to the Government’s long-term economic plan, we are helping businesses to create the jobs that people need.
“The East of England has the joint highest employment rate of all the UK regions at 76.5% with 49,000 more people in work compared to this time last year, so as the economy continues to grow, more and more people are having their lives transformed by moving into work.”
Caroline Williams CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce said: “These figures confirm what our members are telling us is that they are quietly confident about the future. They are starting to take on new staff to provide them with additional resource to be able to take advantage of the new opportunities which are available to them. It is however still a tough economic climate and the Chancellor needs to give this region a boost by listening to the Norfolk business voice and investing in our infrastructure road, rail and broadband”
