Unemployment falls across Greater Manchester

The latest Labour Market release from the Office of National Statistics indicates that once again the claimant count across Greater Manchester has fallen for the third successive month by 1,378, to 84,432.

Commenting on the figures, Dr Brian Sloan, Chief Economist at Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, said:

“The figures reinforce the positive message for job seekers that the private sector across our region is experiencing some growth, and with it creating jobs.

“Our Quarterly Economic Survey from the first quarter of this year accurately predicted this positive trend, however the scale of jobs actually created has not matched expectations showing that the current uncertainty over the economic outlook is putting a brake on appointments.

“Low growth and further public sector cuts to come will likely lead to an increase in the headline numbers in the following months, but we must focus on nurturing confidence as the potential for growth in our region is great.”