People starting new jobs at lowest level in five years

The number of people starting new jobs has fallen to its lowest level in five years, according to new figures, as the number of vacancies continues to fall.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said that while the labour market remained "broadly stable", some areas showed signs of weakening.

Liz McKeown, the ONS's director of economic statistics, said the further drop in job vacancies suggested that "firms are becoming more cautious about taking on new staff".

The unemployment rate fell slightly to 4.9% in the three months to April, from 5% in the three months to March.