Worse than expected. Median forecast had been calling for flat. Biggest rise since January 2010. Claimant count rate up to 4.6% from expected 4.5%.

On the flip side, Ilo jobless -36,000 in 3 months to March. Rate down to 7.7%, better than median forecast of unchanged 7.8%. Lowest rate since July-Sept 2010.

Average earnings 3 months to March +2.3% y/y, above median forecast of +1.9%.

Cable recovering from dip to 1.6201 post releases, presently back up at 1.6235.