Jon Holt, Group Chief Executive and UK Senior Partner KPMG, said:

“Despite the increased global uncertainty there have been signs this year that the long-term decline in hiring may be starting to stabilise as businesses press ahead with their previously delayed recruitment plans. However, until the wider economic impacts of the conflict in the Middle East start to become clearer, many employers will remain cautious about committing to new roles. If that uncertainty remains, the risk is that hiring decisions and investment are deferred again, delaying any sustained recovery in the jobs market.”