- New data on jobs market is published today by the Office for National Statistics
- It reveals the number of people in work has increased again to 32.1million
A major squeeze on wages was confirmed today as the latest employment date confirmed pay is increasing at 2.1 per cent.
The new data comes a day after inflation was revealed to be running at 3 per cent, meaning most people’s pay is worth less than a year ago.
Today’s monthly update on unemployment revealed the number of people in work has risen again to 32.1million.
The unemployment rate was just 4.3 per cent, down from 5.0 per cent a year ago, and the joint lowest since 1975.
A major squeeze on wages was confirmed today as the latest employment date confirmed pay is increasing at 2.1 per cent
Employment minister Damian Hinds said: ‘Our economy is helping to create full time, permanent jobs which are giving people across the UK the chance of securing a reliable income.
‘We’ve boosted the income for people on the lowest pay by increasing the national living wage and delivered the fastest pay rise for the lowest earners in 20 years.
‘That’s great progress and we’re determined to help more people flourish in the world of work.
‘For example we’ve launched our new returnship programme to help more women get into good jobs after taking time out, and to keep their career progressing.’
TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said: “Pay packets are taking a hammering. This is the sixth month in a row that prices have risen faster than wages.
“Britain desperately needs a pay rise. Working people are earning less today in real-terms than a decade ago.
“The Chancellor must help struggling families when he gives his Budget next month.
“This means ditching the artificial pay restrictions on nurses, midwives and other public sector workers and investing in jobs that people can live on.”