Employment levels across the UK rose last year, new research reveals.

According to data released by the Department for Work and Pensions, 29 million people were employed between September and November 2006, one of the highest levels ever seen in the UK.

Indeed, during the final quarter of 2006, 14,000 people became actively employed.

"The latest figures provide a picture of a strong labour market - employment up, unemployment down and the numbers on benefits falling," said Jim Murphy, minister of state for employment and welfare reform.

"The UK already has the highest employment rate of the G8, but we are determined to reach our long-term aim of an 80% employment rate," he added.

In related news, wage settlements over the course of January are increasing pay by around 3.6 per cent, according to data released by Industrial Relations Services.