Strong recovery still a long way off, says TUC

date: 17 July 2013

embargo: For immediate release

Commenting on the latest labour market statistics published today (Wednesday) by the Office for National Statistics, TUC General Secretary Frances O'Grady said:

'While today's figures show some welcome small improvements, our labour market remains a long way off a strong recovery.

'Long-term unemployment is at a 17-year high and youth unemployment remains at crisis levels. Those in work are continuing to see the value of their wages fall, as pay rises more slowly than prices and the biggest squeeze in living standards for over a century continues

.

'Today's figures also suggest that the super rich have successfully managed to postpone their bonuses to avoid paying the 50p tax rate - which was abolished earlier this year - as after peaking in April, bonus pay in the financial and business sector has fallen back.'

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