UK unemployment has dropped by 125,000 - the rate nationally now stands at 7.2 per cent - the Office for National Statistics has reported. 

Employment Minister Esther McVey said: "With employment continuing to increase, its clear that the Governments long-term plan to build a stronger, more secure economy is helping businesses create jobs and get people into work.

"Record numbers of women are in work and youth unemployment continues to fall, which means more people have the security of a regular wage and can plan for their future."