JOB prospects in the region look bleak, according to a new survey.
Although 13 per cent of employers in the North West are forecasting an increase in their workforce, 11 per cent expect a fall.
The figures are significantly worse than last year and, nationally, the figures are the worst for six years,
"These figures are clearly a reflection of what is happening in the North West," said Avis WiIliams, of recruitment firm Manpower, which carried out the survey.
"The irony is that there are still skill shortages in certain sectors. We need continued investment in training and development. The future of business in the North West depends on continued investment in people and skills."
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