The number of permanent hires rose again in March, growing at their fastest pace since October 1997, according to the latest Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) and KPMG’s Report on Jobs.

The data shows thatshort-term staff appointments rose at their strongest rate for 34 months in March.

Kevin Green, chief executive of the REC, says:“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 jobseekers.”