Response to labour market statistics

Matthew Percival, CBI Director for People and Skills, said:

“This data shows the devastating mark left on the labour market by the coronavirus crisis. With the UK under stringent lockdown measures to contain the virus in the quarter to June, fall in jobs and hours worked is to be expected.

“More positively, there is a small rise in vacancies, particularly in the hospitality sector as restrictions were relaxed.

“As local lockdowns become more common, the nature of support for businesses and people will need to evolve. Stepping up test and trace efforts will also be essential to minimise disruption in affected areas.”