WIREDGOV

Responding to the publication of the latest Labour Market Statistics (22 January 2014), First Minister Carwyn Jones said:

“Today’s figures are particularly positive for Wales with employment levels at an historic high and economic inactivity at a record low.

“Wales is outperforming the UK as a whole in crucial areas such as youth employment, where unemployment amongst the 16-17 year old and 18-24 year old groups is falling faster in Wales than across other parts of the UK.

“While the damage caused by the UK Government’s failure to respond to the economic downturn has not been fully repaired, today’s employment figures, together with our positive economic output indicators, show that Wales can face 2014 with an increased spirit of optimism and confidence as our economy continues to recover more quickly than most other parts of the UK.”

The Welsh Government is continuing to provide direct support for businesses in Wales to help them grow and create opportunities through such initiatives as our Business Wales one stop shops, which has provided direct advice to 5,360 businesses across Wales, creating and safeguarding more than 2,200 jobs in its first year.