ONS employment figures: Reaction from South Wales Chamber of Commerce

Keith Palmer, CEO of the South Wales Chamber of Commerce, said: “It’s really encouraging to see such a significant drop in Welsh unemployment figures, particularly when viewed in the context of an increase at a UK level.

“I think this can be put down to maintained confidence levels among Welsh businesses and Welsh Government initiatives that support businesses, specifically its Business Wales programmes.

“That said, I know Ministers won’t be complacent and will build on this momentum by continuing to push some really important initiatives such as Superfast Broadband Exploitation.

“What’s also important is that attention is paid to the Welsh skills agenda so that when businesses have the opportunity to grow and recruit, there is an adequate pool of skilled labour to draw upon.”