Rachel Reeves MP, Labour’s Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary, commenting on the unemployment figures published today said:

 “The fall in overall unemployment is welcome. However, the government needs to do much more to tackle youth unemployment.

“Today’s figures show the number of unemployed 18 – 24 year olds has risen and there are more than 700,000 young people out of work.

 “The government must act to give young people the chance to earn a living with better quality apprenticeships  and must help the thousands left behind in the last five years.”