WAGES have risen the fastest in a decade, according to the latest labour market statistics.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics show wages outpacing inflation for the eleventh month in a row.

It also showed the employment rate for Wales is 76.2 per cent, above the UK rate of 75.8 per cent for the first time since records began in 1992.

A record high employment rate for people from ethnic minority backgrounds of 66.2 per cent has been recorded too.

Secretary of state for Wales Alun Cairns said: “These record breaking figures demonstrate an upward trend in the economy, highlighting sustainable job creation and business growth. The Welsh employment rate is now higher than the UK average for the first time since records began in 1992. With 87,000 more people in work compared to a year ago, there are now over 1.5 million people in work across Wales, with the employment rate at a record high of 76.2 per cent. With companies across Wales creating more jobs, Wales is once again proving itself to be a country that enables the private sector to thrive. It is encouraging to see that the UK Government’s efforts to get more people in to work are making significant progress."

The Welsh Government economy minister minister Ken Skates said: “News that the employment rate in Wales is now at a historic high of 76.2 per cent and above the average for the UK. It’s particularly pleasing that our employment rate has increased more quickly than the UK as a whole both on the quarter and on the year. Our continued work to attract internationally renowned companies such as Monzo and Calsonic Kansei has been key to this success."