UK unemployment rate rises slightly to 5.1%

The UK unemployment rate in the three months to October has increased to 5.1%, according to official figures.

That marked a rise from 5% for the three months to September.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said the data reflected a "subdued labour market".

Average wage growth was 4.6%, excluding bonuses, between August and October 2025.

Annual average earnings growth was 3.9% for the private sector and 7.6% for the public sector, across the three-month period.

Wage growth adjusted for inflation was 0.5%, excluding bonuses.

Liz McKeown, the ONS director of economic statistics, said the figures indicate "a weakening labour market".

"The number of employees on payroll has fallen again, reflecting subdued hiring activity.

"The fall in payroll numbers and increase in unemployment has been seen particularly among some younger age groups," Ms McKeown said.