EMPLOYMENT in Yorkshire is expected to grow by 42 per cent in 2015, according to new findings from business body the CBI today.

It says about half of British businesses are planning to expand their workforce next year, creating jobs in all regions, with permanent jobs outstripping temporary work.

But the CBI warns that concerns over skills gaps that could prevent some jobs being filled, are seen as the biggest workforce threat to UK competitiveness, and worries about new regulation damaging job creation in the UK’s flexible labour market are a close second.

The survey covers 323 businesses employing a combined total of more than 1.25 million people.

Pay levels are expected to rise in 2015, though at a cautious rate, reflecting weak productivity and competitive pressures. The CBI said the findings underline the vital role played by the UK’s flexible labour market in underpinning growth and job creation.