THE number of unemployed people in Worcestershire is set to drop, according to a survey by a recruitment and training specialist.

The Manpower survey of job prospects shows businesses in the West Midlands expect to take on more staff in the second quarter of 2001.

The survey, which has been conducted for the past 30 years, is claimed to be one of the most accurate predictors of employment trends.

It used by both Government and industry, including the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee, as evidence of labour market activity.

The survey asked 2,000 UK companies if they expected an increase in staffing levels after June.

Twenty-eight per cent planned to take on more staff, with only 9 per cent expecting cuts.

Manpower's managing director, Iain Herbertson, said the survey showed all sectors of industry were still buoyant.

"A recognition by business that a well-trained, stable and flexible workforce means the pattern of steady growth in employment should continue. Full employment's still a possibility before the end of the decade."