Better job market for graduates - graduate jobs

Graduates are set to benefit from a revival in the jobs market as UK businesses seek out new talent.

Research by the Recruitment & Employment Confederation shows the fastest rise in permanent job placements since 1997.

There has also been an increase in temporary and contract jobs over the last month, while shorter-term appointments have risen at the sharpest rate for just under 3 years.

But a study of 400 recruitment firms also showed there was better availability of staff during March, which could reflect the impact of public expenditure cuts.

Kevin Green, the confederation's chief executive, said: "Permanent appointments increasing at the fastest pace for over 12 years is the clearest sign yet of a revival in the UK jobs market.

"A rise in both temporary and contract work at the sharpest rate for nearly three years shows how they continue to provide vital flexibility for UK businesses as well as a valuable route back into work for job-seekers."

Bernard Brown of KPMG, which helped with the report, added: "The UK jobs market seems to be going from strength to strength. These figures show that private sector confidence is returning and that the UK is exiting recession at a pace."