'Anyone over the age of 57 will not be looked at' Vicky Pryce hits out at UK inactivity
Vicky Pryce at Battle of Ideas Festival
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Economist Vicky Price has hit out at Britain's inactivity rate.
Speaking at the Battle of Ideas event in central London, she said: "One of the reasons why inativity has increased is because, actually what has developed mainly because of the AI age, is serious ageism in the workplace.
"We found a service which now suggests that the HR will not look at anyone over the age of 57 and that is a really important especially for people trying to come back after Covid 19.
She added that the Labour government would not make it easy for employers: "It's not easy for the employer, an employer, who have been facing increased taxes, as we know, given the budget coming up.
"It's a very interesting crossroads in which we find ourselves."
On immigration, she explained: "Yes, we want to bring people in, but can we bring them in in a way that actually encourage productivity and growth, rather than just being an attempt which forms out of all the other things that are going on right now."
The UK is grappling with an increasing rate of economic inactivity, raising concerns over the country’s labour market health.
Recent data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that over 8.7 million people of working age are currently inactive, representing a significant portion of the population.
This figure, which includes those not in work or actively seeking employment, has surged due to a combination of long-term illness, early retirement, and discouragement from finding work.
Joblessness is becoming a growing concern, especially as the cost-of-living crisis and inflation continue to strain households.
While unemployment rates remain relatively low, the rise in inactivity reflects deeper issues, including the impact of post-pandemic health problems and changes in workforce dynamics.
Health-related inactivity is particularly notable, with a record number of people citing long-term illness as their reason for not working.
The government's efforts to reintegrate these individuals into the workforce have so far yielded limited results.
Experts warn that a persistently high inactivity rate could hamper Britain’s economic recovery, limit productivity, and increase pressure on social services.
As policymakers seek solutions, calls for more robust support, job creation schemes, and health interventions are growing louder.