UK unemployment rate reaches highest level since 2015 as wage growth slows
Britain's unemployment rate rose to 5.2 percent in late 2025 while wage growth cooled. This data fuels expectations for a Bank of England interest rate cut.
The Office for National Statistics released data today showing that the UK labour market weakened in the final quarter of 2025, with the unemployment rate rising to 5.2% in Britain 
GB. This figure represents the highest level since the three months to October 2015 (excluding the pandemic). Simultaneously, annual regular average weekly earnings growth excluding bonuses slowed to 4.2%, according to the report published on February 17, 2026.
GB. This figure represents the highest level since the three months to October 2015 (excluding the pandemic). Simultaneously, annual regular average weekly earnings growth excluding bonuses slowed to 4.2%, according to the report published on February 17, 2026.
