The latest report, compiled by S&P Global, pointed to a further slowdown in recruitment across the UK at the end of the third quarter.

The number of permanent staff and temp billings expanded at the weakest rate in 19 months, as uncertainty with the current economic outlook hampered growth.

Overall vacancy growth softened for the sixth consecutive month in a row in September, marking the slowest rise in demand for staff since February 2021.

The rising cost of living and competition for scarce workers drove further marked increases in starting pay for both permanent and short-term workers.