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UK unemployment in further fall UK unemployment in further fall
(10 minutes later)
The number of people unemployed in the UK has fallen again, leaving the jobless rate at 7.8%, figures show.The number of people unemployed in the UK has fallen again, leaving the jobless rate at 7.8%, figures show.
Total unemployment stood at 2.45 million for the three months to January, down 33,000 on the figure for the previous three months.Total unemployment stood at 2.45 million for the three months to January, down 33,000 on the figure for the previous three months.
But long-term unemployment, covering those out of work for more than a year, rose by 61,000 to 687,000.But long-term unemployment, covering those out of work for more than a year, rose by 61,000 to 687,000.
The number of people claiming Jobseeker's Allowance fell by 32,300 to 1.59 million in February.The number of people claiming Jobseeker's Allowance fell by 32,300 to 1.59 million in February.
"This is a positive surprise and not before time," said Colin Ellis, Economist at Daiwa Capital Markets, in response to the unemployment figures.
He said that workers were being flexible, so as to remain in the labour market.
"Workers are probably willing to accept lower wages or shorter hours to hang on to their jobs."
However, the number of people in work actually fell in the quarter, by 54,000 to 28.86 million.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said that unemployment and employment were both falling because of a rising number of people being classed as economically inactive.
This category includes students and those on long-term sick leave, as well as those who have stopped looking for a job.