The CBI has commented on the latest official labour market data, which revealed that employment rose by 90,000 in the three months to November and unemployment dropped by 37,000.

CBI Director for Employment and Skills, Neil Carberry, said:

“It is encouraging that more jobs have been created this month than last. It is good news that people continue to find work despite tough economic times, and in particular that 113,000 more people are now working full time.

“It’s especially positive that regions outside the South East, such as the West Midlands and Yorkshire and the Humber are creating the majority of national jobs.

“Pay restraint has played an important role in preserving jobs, and with growth in average weekly earnings remaining subdued at 1.5%, it’s clear that this is a trend that continues.”