The number of people out of work in the UK rose 244,000 to 2.22 million in the first three months of 2009, the Office of National Statistics has revealed today.
The jobless rate rose from 6.7 per cent to 7.1 per cent, the largest since 1981. Unemployment benefit claimants in April rose 57,100 to 1.51 million.
Kevin Green, the RECís Chief Executive, said: ìAlthough the ONS figures show a significant jump in unemployment, the rate of deterioration in the jobs market is showing signs of easing according to the latest REC Report on Jobs. As demand returns to the economy, employersí initial focus is likely to be on hiring temporary, contract and interim workers.
ìA flexible workforce will help businesses respond to this demand by providing a stepping stone back into work for the unemployed. It is crucial then that the current consultation on implementation of the Agency Workers Directive in the UK protects the flexibility of the temp market and does not hamper employersí ability to hire temporary workers.î
REC responds to squeeze on jobs market
The number of people out of work in the UK rose 244,000 to 2.22 million in the first three months of 2009, the Office of National Statistics has revealed today
