THE number of people in work has reached a joint record high, according to new statistics.

Figures released by the Office for National Statistics show that 32.39 million people were in work – up by 440,000 on 2017.

Estimates from the Labour Force Survey show that between November 2017 to January 2018 and February to April 2018 showed that the number of people in work increased whilst the number of unemployed people decreased.

The employment rate – the number of people aged between 16 and 64 in work – was 75.6 per cent – the joint highest since records began in 1971.

There were 1.42 million unemployed people (people not in work but seeking and available to work), 38,000 fewer than for November 2017 to January 2018 and 115,000 fewer than for a year earlier.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Esther McVey said: “The employment rate has never been higher – with over 3.3 million people moving into work since 2010.

“It’s a Great British success story with businesses from Exeter to Edinburgh creating jobs – helping, on average 1,000 people find a job each and every day since 2010.

“And with the increase in the personal tax allowance, this Government has ensured that people are keeping more of their money before they begin paying tax – meaning more take-home pay, that’s more money in your pocket for you and your family.”

Figures also showed that 8.65 million 16 to 64-year-olds were ‘economically inactive’ – not working and not seeking work or available for work – which is down by 72,000 on November 2017 to January 2018 and 200,000 fewer than a year earlier.

Minister for Employment, Alok Sharma said: “At 75.6 per cent, the employment rate has never been higher, with more people in work than ever before. And with a continued fall in unemployment, we have a strong jobs market that’s set 17 new employment rate records since 2010.”