The UK unemployment rate fell to 3.5pc in the spring, according to initial findings from experimental new official data, suggesting the jobs market is more resilient than previously thought.

The data, which would leave the percentage of jobseekers matching its lowest levels since the 1970s, was quietly released last month in a spreadsheet by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

It contrasts with official estimates which put the unemployment rate at 4.2pc for the second and third quarters of the year.

The ONS has not focused on the figures, which it said are “very early” and “indicative only” results of its new Transformed Labour Force Survey. 

It suggested the unemployment rate was 3.5pc in the three months to May and 3.8pc in the three months to June.

The data could increase pressure on the Bank of England to keep interest rates higher for longer to avoid strong employment levels fuelling inflation.

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