Increasing Inactivity A Worrying Sign

24th October 2023

Jane Gratton, Deputy Director Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, reacts to the latest ONS Labour Market data

Reacting to the latest ONS Labour Market data, Jane Gratton, Deputy Director Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said:  

“It’s disappointing to see the number of economically inactive again ticking up, reversing recent trends. Employers need substantial flows of people back into job seeking and employment. 

“The ONS data also shows vacancies remain well above pre-pandemic levels and wages outpacing inflation.

“Underneath these headline figures the skills crisis continues and the overall picture remains challenging. The Chancellor should introduce tax breaks in the Autumn Statement to help firms invest more in training and Occupational Health benefits.  

“We need to tackle skills shortages, keep people in work and help those who want to work back into employment.  

You might also be interested in

King’s Speech: Welcome Action But Gaps Remain

Wed 13th May 2026

Shevaun Haviland CBE, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, responds to today’s King’s Speech.

South Yorkshire’s Quarterly Economic Survey is now underway to quantify the impact of rising employment costs and pressures.

Wed 13th May 2026

South Yorkshire’s Quarterly Economic Survey is now underway to quantify the impact of rising employment costs and pressures.

South Yorkshire’s Quarterly Economic Survey is now underway to quantify the impact of rising employment costs and pressures.

Mon 11th May 2026

South Yorkshire’s Quarterly Economic Survey is now open, providing a critical opportunity to quantify the growing impact of rising employment costs on businesses across the region.

UK’s Economic Security At Risk

Mon 27th April 2026

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is urging Government to prioritise the UK’s economic security, after 10 years of geopolitical shocks have repeatedly damaged growth.