Falls in employment revealed on Tuesday highlight the scale of the challenge ahead as Ministers’ furlough cliff edge fast approaches.

Employment in the UK fell by the largest amount in over a decade between April and June, Office for National Statistics (ONS) data has shown, with employment decreasing by 220,000 on the quarter.

The youngest workers, oldest workers and those in manual occupations were the worst hit during the pandemic. The job figures highlight the scale of the challenge ahead. This is the tip of the iceberg.
There is danger coming as Ministers’ October furlough cliff edge fast approaches.

The country cannot suffer another decade of weak growth, cuts to services and squeezes on the poorest.
This challenge must be met square on with bold action and targeted support from Government to protect jobs, secure livelihoods and save industries.