Reeves Blamed for ‘Killing Jobs’ as Economic Inactivity Soars

New jobs data reveals a significant rise in economic inactivity, with over 20 million Britons now not looking for work, prompting Conservative accusations that Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Labour are “killing jobs” and driving more people onto benefits. This surge in those “giving up” on work comes amidst a sharp decline in job vacancies to a five-year low.

The latest labour market figures have ignited fresh criticism of the Labour government’s economic management. While official unemployment has slightly fallen, the number of individuals classified as economically inactive has surged, raising concerns about the nation’s workforce and welfare burden.

Conservatives argue that Labour’s policies are creating an environment where a life on “benefits street” is becoming a more attractive option than employment for a growing segment of the population. This comes as job vacancies across the UK have plummeted, indicating a broader economic malaise.

Economic Inactivity Reaches Alarming Levels

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) data shows that the number of economically inactive people has risen to 20,489,441, an increase of 68,917. These individuals are not counted in unemployment figures because they are not actively seeking work, a trend critics attribute to the current government’s handling of the economy.

This rise in economic inactivity coincides with a significant drop in job vacancies. Vacancies tumbled by 19,000 quarter-on-quarter to 707,000 in the three months to May, marking the lowest level since April 2021. This decline was particularly pronounced in the retail, hospitality, and professional services sectors, suggesting a widespread retrenchment in hiring.

Conservative Fury Over Labour’s Economic Record

“Labour are killing jobs and people are giving up.”

— Helen Whately, Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary

Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Helen Whately’s stark assessment highlights the Conservative belief that the government’s actions are directly contributing to a decline in workforce participation. She argues that the rise in economic inactivity means “more people on benefits and a higher welfare bill, at the taxpayers expense,” as individuals are no longer even attempting to find employment.

Andrew Griffith, the Shadow Business Secretary, echoed these sentiments, stating that the figures “disguise the fact that many people have fallen out of the workforce and are adding to the ever greater ranks of sick note Britain where being on Benefits Street is better than a hard days graft.” He called for an economy that actively encourages people back into work, suggesting current policies are failing.

• Over 20.4 million people are now economically inactive, an increase of 68,917.
• Job vacancies have slumped to a five-year low, falling by 19,000 to 707,000.
• The ONS reports payroll numbers continue to fall, with new recruits at their lowest level in five years.
• Conservative figures accuse Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Labour of “killing jobs” and creating a “benefits street” culture.
• The rise in economic inactivity suggests a growing number of Britons are “giving up” on seeking employment.

What This Means for Britain

This alarming rise in economic inactivity translates directly to working families facing increased burdens. As more people move onto benefits, the pressure on the public purse grows, potentially leading to higher taxes or reduced public services. Your hard-earned money could be increasingly diverted to prop up a system failing to get people back into productive work.

Economically, the slump in job vacancies and falling payroll numbers signal a stagnant market. Fewer jobs mean less opportunity, less investment, and a slower economy. This directly impacts household incomes, job security, and the overall cost of living for every British citizen.

Politically, these figures represent another significant blow to Chancellor Reeves and the Labour government. Despite claims of an “economic plan for growth,” the reality on the ground, as seen in these statistics, paints a picture of a workforce in decline and a government struggling to deliver on its promises. This pattern of missed targets and growing dependency erodes trust in the establishment.

If this trend of rising economic inactivity and falling job opportunities continues, Britain risks a long-term decline in productivity and prosperity. The very fabric of our working society is under threat, and the ability of the nation to support itself becomes increasingly precarious. This must be addressed now, before it’s too late.

Share if you believe Britain deserves better than a government that presides over a nation “giving up” on work. Demand answers from your MP. This must be seen by every British voter.

Source: Daily Express | Breaking Brexit News