Jobless rate in Wales shows sharp increase

UNEMPLOYMENT in Wales has risen sharply, while the rate of workingage adults classed as economically inactive remains one of the highest of any UK nation or region.

- By SION BARRY

According to the ONS, unemployment in August to October was up 1.4% on the quarter in Wales to 6.1% (94,000 people) - compared to 5.1% for the UK as a whole.

Unemployment is at its highest rate since early 2021 and, outside the pandemic period, early 2016. The rate is only higher than Wales in London at 6.8%. In England it was 5.2%, Scotland 3.8% and Northern Ireland 2.4%.