REC response to ONS labour market figures, November 2021

The ONS published its latest labour market statistics this morning, showing that the labour market continues to recover.

In response, Chief Executive of the REC Neil Carberry said:

“This latest data shows the labour market showing remarkable stability even as Furlough came to an end. Vacancy numbers reached another new record high, and recruiters have been working hard to get people into jobs – but there are shortages in sectors across the economy, making their task harder than ever. Our own data shows employers have been raising starting salaries at a record pace to try and attract the best candidates.

“But this sugar rush will not last forever, and we can already see the pace of growth starting to slow. It’s important that government put measures in place that will help companies to invest and keep the economy growing. Despite the record vacancies we need to keep an eye on tackling unemployment and inactivity. This will be best achieved through collaboration between business and government, with a joined-up effort that will deliver a revolution in training for work and help meet the needs of the economy.”

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