Rise in UK jobless rate muddies Rishi Sunak's message to voters

In April, Britain's labour market showed signs of cooling as the unemployment rate rose to 4.4%, the highest since September 2021. Despite robust wage growth, the number of employed people fell by 207,000. Prime Minister Sunak faces challenges ahead of the July 4 election. Inactivity rates and long-term sickness are rising, prompting potential reforms. Wage growth remains strong, but the economy faces uncertainties.