Jobs report points to revival

Date: 7th April 2010

The UK jobs market is showing signs of recovery, according to a new report from the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC).

Stronger increases in appointments for both permanent staff and temporary and contract workers in March were revealed by the organisation's latest Report on Jobs.

Data from the research showed that permanent staff appointments made by recruitment consultancies increased to the strongest rate recorded since October 1997.

Kevin Green, the REC's chief executive said: "Permanent appointments increasing at the fastest pace for over 12 years is the clearest sign yet of a revival in the UK jobs market.

"A rise in both temporary and contract work at the sharpest rate for nearly three years shows how they continue to provide vital flexibility for UK businesses as well as a valuable route back into work for job-seekers."

However Mr Green expressed a note of caution, saying the jobs market is likely to be impacted by a reduction in public sector spending, which is expected to be announced in detail as the run up to the general election takes place.

It was confirmed yesterday that the election will be held on May 6th.