Debbie Abrahams MP, Labour’s Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary, responding to a report by Recruitment & Employment Confederation and Markit’s UK Jobs index showing the number of people appointed to full-time roles plunged to the worst level since the start of the recession in 2009 said:

“These figures emphasise the fragility of the labour market and the Tories’ failure to take the action needed to support our economy through difficult times. Under the Tories, the economy continues to be over reliant on low paid and insecure work. This shows the importance of Labour defending tax credits to protect working families’ incomes.

“We need the Government to stop stalling and take urgent action to support our economy. Labour would invest in infrastructure and jobs across the country to ensure our economy is equipped for the future.”