Investment in skills within the leisure industry is crucial if the sector is to emerge from the recession as fit for purpose, according to a report commissioned by the government.

The results of the first National Strategic Skills Audit, released by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES), warns that if the economic recovery is to continue it is important that future skills development needs are correctly identified and prioritised.

If investment is not achieved, the UK economy runs the risk of increased skills shortages and under-employment.

The report reveals that The UK's growth in highly skilled jobs is already one of the lowest in the 30 member countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Also identified in the report is the number of people reported as 'not fully proficient' at their jobs. The figure has increased by 400,000 in the past five years - from 1.3m in 2005 to 1.7m in 2009.

Chris Humphries, chief executive of UKCES, said: "The National Strategic Skills Audit shows that there have been some substantial changes in the labour market over the past decade.

"In order to operate in this fast-changing environment we need comprehensive market intelligence, showing us which are the really key priorities for future investment.

"The National Strategic Skills Audit is the single best source of that, and will help employers, individuals, and education and training providers to make the best informed decisions possible."