Unemployment rises to 2.62 million The CBI commented on official data showing unemployment rose by 129,000 to 2.62 million in the three months to September 2011, including a rise in youth unemployment to over a million. John Cridland, CBI Director-General, said: ‘These figures underline why we need urgent action to help our young people take their first steps in the labour market. A generation risks being scarred by the devastating effects of long-term unemployment. We are calling for action for jobs now, with a clear plan to get the UK working, focusing on our young people.’    Internet link:    BBC News    CBI press release back