CBI responds to latest labour market statistics

Eugenia Migliori, CBI Principal Policy Adviser, said:

"The UK economy continues to create jobs, but businesses are still struggling to hire and pay is failing to keep up with inflation. Persistent skills and labour shortages, alongside rising costs, is putting a strain on households and dampening business optimism for the months ahead.

"Addressing the skills challenges facing the country requires bold action. Replacing the apprenticeship levy for a new Skills Challenge Fund will allow firms to fund more high-quality training especially in areas of future demand. Acting now will help us meet the UK's long-term skills need."