Job vacancies declined last month at the fastest rate in 11 years as employers cut or freeze staff due to the recession, according to a poll by consultants KPMG.

"The UK jobs market is continuing its downward spiral, with placements falling for the 11th month in succession and vacancies down across most sections," said Mike Stevens, head of business services at KPMG.

Starting salaries for new workers also declined at the sharpest rate since the survey began in 1997. While this is an indication of the current difficult economic climate it does mean that small businesses owners have increased options when it comes to hiring new staff, with the demand for work currently outstripping supply.