A. 3.2%
B. 4.0%
C. 4.7%
D. 6.5%
Explanation:
UK labour-market figures showed unemployment falling to 4.7%, while average weekly earnings excluding bonuses increased by 3.7% in the three months to August compared with the same period in 2025. However, vacancies fell to 691,000, showing that hiring remained weak.
Key points
– The data came from the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS).
– Average weekly earnings excluding bonuses rose by 3.7% year-on-year.
– Private-sector pay growth reached 3.0%.
– Payrolled employees increased by 13,000 in September.
– Job vacancies fell to 691,000, their lowest level outside the COVID-19 period since 2014.
– The data could influence the Bank of England’s interest-rate decisions.
Related questions and answers
– Q: What does ONS stand for?
A: Office for National Statistics.
– Q: What was the reported UK unemployment rate?
A: 4.7%.
– Q: How many job vacancies were reported?
A: 691,000.
– Q: Which institution sets the UK’s monetary policy?
A: The Bank of England.
– Q: What is the purpose of an interest-rate increase?
A: One purpose is to reduce inflationary pressure by making borrowing more expensive.