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Today's job figures are good news, says REC

Commenting on today’s employment figures from the Office of National Statistics which show a 45,000 drop in unemployment, chief executive of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation Kevin Green says:

“Today’s decrease in unemployment is good news and fits in with our data that shows employers intend to increase their numbers of both permanent and temporary staff over the course of the next year.

“There is employer confidence but it remains fragile with further bad news about the eurozone risks denting that confidence. We expect to see further volatility in the jobs market in 2012 but flexible working continues to provide opportunities for both jobseekers and employers.

“An additional 118,000 people have entered the labour market in the last quarter, thanks to part-time working options. Part-time work should not be considered as ‘second class’ and many people working part-time are doing so out of choice. It may not be ideal for everyone but it is much better than the alternative of unemployment and benefits. We want as many people contributing to the economy and keeping their skills fresh. Taking on a part-time job can also be a stepping stone to a full-time position that jobseekers really want.

“Workers are increasingly asking their bosses for greater flexibility and we expect this to be a continuing trend in the UK labour market.”

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