Unemployment rate highest for more than two years

The unemployment rate has continued to edge higher, according to the latest government data.

The rate climbed to 4.4% in February to April this year, up from the previous figure of 4.3%.

The Office for National Statistics also said there was another increase in the inactivity rate, with 22.3% of working age people deemed not to be actively looking for work.

Wage growth remained strong, with regular pay rising at an annual pace of 6%.