UK labour market figures on 20 October: what to watch after unemployment held at 4.9%
The Office for National Statistics publishes its labour market bulletin on 20 October. Unemployment was 4.9% for May to July, with about 1.78 million people out of work.
The Office for National Statistics publishes its labour market bulletin for the period to August on 20 October 2026. The last bulletin, released on 15 September, put the unemployment rate at 4.9% for May to July, down 0.1 point on the quarter and up 0.2 point on the year. About 1.78 million people were unemployed, and the employment rate for people aged 16 to 64 was 75.1%. The bulletin is the source for the regular pay growth figure, which the Bank of England watches closely (September bulletin).
What the next bulletin will show
The new release covers the latest three months for unemployment and employment, and it will show whether the 4.9% rate has moved. Wage growth is the other key figure, because it feeds into the Bank of England's view of services inflation.
Why it matters for sterling
The Bank of England held Bank Rate at 3.75% on a 6–3 vote in September, with three members voting for an increase (Bank report). A tighter labour market and firmer wages would strengthen the case for a rise, and a looser one would weaken it. The next Bank decision is on 5 November. For the broader UK picture, see UK GDP revised up to 0.5%. Live prices: GBP/USD.
Sources
Common questions
When is the next UK labour market release?
The ONS publishes its labour market overview on 20 October 2026.
What was the UK unemployment rate in the last release?
The rate was 4.9% for May to July 2026, down 0.1 point on the previous quarter.
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