My Tiny Feed

news.sky.com

UK Jobless Rate Rises, Sparking Economic Concerns

UK unemployment rises unexpectedly, fueling concerns about the government's economic policies and their potential impact on jobs and growth.

Read original article in English

English

United Kingdom

EconomyLabour MarketUkInflationGovernmentUnemploymentJobs

Office For National Statistics (Ons)Bank Of EnglandAj BellWealth Club

Keir StarmerRachel ReevesDanni HewsonIsaac StellLiz Kendall

What was the unexpected change in the UK's unemployment rate?: The UK's unemployment rate unexpectedly rose to 4.3% in the three months leading up to September, exceeding economist predictions of 4.1%. This increase follows a previous rate of 4% and raises concerns about the government's economic policies.
How did average regular earnings growth change, and what is its significance?: Average regular earnings growth slowed to its lowest point since April-June 2002, reaching 4.8%. While still surpassing inflation, this decline is attributed partly to public sector pay rises, suggesting private sector wage growth is easing.
What are the counterarguments and perspectives on the current economic situation and its implications?: While the government points to an increase in the national living wage as a positive measure, concerns remain about rising unemployment and the impact of recent economic policies on job creation and overall economic growth. The situation is causing anxieties among businesses and economic commentators.
What are the concerns regarding the new government's economic policies and their potential impact on businesses?: The new government's economic policies, particularly the recent budget which increased taxes for businesses, have drawn criticism. Businesses warn these measures could negatively impact investment, hiring, and wage increases, contradicting the government's stated goal of economic growth.
What was the change in payrolled employment in September, and what are the varying interpretations of this data?: Payrolled employment decreased by 5,000 in September, adding to the concerns about the economic outlook. Some commentators suggest this could be a temporary fluctuation due to issues with data collection, while others link it to government policies.

Jan 22, 19:09

£2.3 Billion Hit to Businesses After Pension Threshold Freeze

Labour's freeze on the auto-enrollment threshold for workplace pensions at £10,000 will cost businesses an additional £2.3 billion in 2025-26 due to rising wages bringing more low-earners into the system, increasing employer contributions to £51.9 billion, despite concerns over potential job losses.

Jan 1, 22:06

Bristol Uber Drivers Report Plummeting Earnings Amidst Rising Costs

Bristol Uber drivers report drastically reduced earnings due to rising costs and unchanged fares, despite Uber's claims of a National Living Wage guarantee, prompting concerns about working conditions and financial sustainability.

Dec 15, 10:07

Retailers' Use of Gig Apps Raises Concerns Over Christmas Staffing

High-street retailers are increasingly using gig apps to hire freelance shop assistants for Christmas, raising concerns about workers' rights and the circumvention of labor laws, as highlighted by the TUC.

Dec 4, 04:09

Grimsby: High Welfare Claims Spark Debate

Grimsby, UK, faces criticism for having the highest rate of welfare benefit claimants in Britain, with 53% of residents in the East Marsh and Port areas receiving benefits, a situation attributed to the decline of the fishing industry and sparking mixed reactions from residents.