The number of permanent jobs available across the UK has fallen for the first time since July 2009, according to a "gloomy" survey of recruitment firms today.
The drop reflected "hesitancy" among companies about the economic outlook, said the Recruitment & Employment Confederation.
Research among 400 recruitment consultancies showed a "modest" increase in temporary and contract jobs last month and the first fall in permanent staff placements in over two years.
The number of candidates seeking full time jobs increased at the sharpest rate for almost two years, said the report.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article