UK employment has fallen by 2.49 million between September and November 2012, reaching an 18 month record low.

Figures released by the ONS also showed that people in work rose to 29.7 million.

The positive figures were offset by increase in unemployment in younger working generations, with unemployment in18-24 year olds increasing.

Employment Minister Mark Hoban commented on the release of the figures, saying: “These are very positive figures showing employment rising for 15 months and despite difficult economic circumstances”.

Shadow work and pensions secretary Liam Byrne, welcomed the results but cautioned the “shaky foundations” of the UK job sector.