UK recruiters report sharp decline in permanent hiring as firms delay decisions

The United Kingdom report a significant drop in permanent hiring activity as employers delay staffing decisions due to economic uncertainty and shifting monetary policy expectations. Temporary hiring has remained more resilient, though growth has slowed compared to earlier months. According to the latest survey, wage inflation continues to cool as applicant availability improves. Analysts say the slowdown reflects broader caution in the UK labour market ahead of 2026 policy announcements.