Unemployment figures fall again to 2.45 million

Total unemployment stood at 2.45 million for the three months to January, down 33,000 on the previous quarter. However, long-term unemployment, based on those out of work for more than a year, rose by 61,000 to 687,000. Additionally the number of people in work actually fell in the quarter, by 54,000 to 28.86 million. The ONS said unemployment and employment were both falling because of a rising number of people being classed as economically 'inactive', including students and those on long term sick leave as well as those who have simply stopped looking for work. The figures rec...