The unemployment rate in Wales has risen by 1.4 percentage points over the last quarter, reaching 6.1%. This is significantly higher than the UK average of 5.1%, which itself rose by 0.4 percentage points over the same period.
Early estimates for November 2025 show that, at a UK level, there was a monthly reduction of 38,000 paid employees. These figures were reported by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and HMRC.
This represents further bad news for both the UK and Welsh Governments, which have overseen consistent reductions in employment throughout 2025. Employment rates are now at their lowest levels since 2015.
Janet commented:
“Unfortunately, today’s figures come as no surprise. The UK Government has repeatedly increased taxes on businesses and working people, resulting in a stagnant economy and rising unemployment, particularly here in Wales.
“This was always the risk following Rachel Reeves’ two budgets, and these figures will cause real concern for working families and business owners alike.
“The Welsh Conservatives have set out clear plans to cut taxes and support businesses and workers, including scrapping business rates for small businesses and reducing income tax. These measures would help stimulate Wales’s struggling economy and help get people back into work”
