The rate of employment grew faster in Wales than in any other part of the UK over the three months November to January, according to official figures published last week.

Employment increased by 24,000 - 1.2 per cent – during the quarter, with the latest statistics showing 1.389million people in work in Wales.

Unemployment in Wales fell by 13,000 - 0.9 per cent - over the period, and by 8,000 over the year.

The unemployment rate now stands at 6.2 per cent, a fall of 0.9 per cent over the past three months and the third largest fall out of all the UK nations and regions.

The number of Jobseeker’s Allowance claimants in Wales fell by 1,300 in February and 17,300 over the year - the 24th consecutive monthly fall.

Secretary of State for Wales Stephen Crabb said: "Welsh business has powered the economic recovery in Wales since 2010.

"By investing in infrastructure, cutting red tape and lowering job taxes, we have put in place the right conditions for growth. But it is Welsh business that is responsible for these positive figures today.

"Throughout difficult times, they have shown the determination and ambition to expand their companies, grow the economy and create new jobs.

"As a result, more people in Wales are now benefiting from the security of a meaningful job, a regular wage and a better standard of living.

"But the job is not yet done. And so in 2015 we must stick to our long-term economic plan, backing business, until people in all parts of Wales can truly feel the benefits of the economic recovery."