Britain’s jobs market downturn eased slightly last month, according to a survey of recruitment companies on Wednesday that ​showed an upturn in temporary hiring and starting ‌salaries.

The monthly Report on Jobs from accountants KPMG and the Recruitment and Employment Confederation, a trade body, showed temporary billings ​growth rose to a more than three-year high ​in June, although permanent placements contracted.

“The story of ⁠the past few months has been the pivot to ​temporary work,” said Lisa Fernihough, vice chair advisory at ​KPMG.

Below are key points from the survey and relevant context:

  • While overall demand for staff weakened at the fastest pace in ​five months, the survey’s gauge of permanent starting ​salaries hit a five-month high
  • Bank of England policymakers are watching ‌pay ⁠pressures closely
  • “With chief execs still facing into global uncertainty, this preference for a flexible approach to hiring means they have been able to progress shorter term projects ​and investment s ​without longer ⁠term commitments,” Fernihough said