The UK is near the bottom of a world league for job security, according to a report today.

A poll covering 24 countries showed workers in this country were more insecure about their jobs than everywhere else, except Korea.

About 46 per cent of Korean workers were said to be unsure of their jobs, even if they were performing well, compared with 41 per cent in the UK, 38 per cent in Japan and 37 per cent in the United States, Australia and France.

The figure was only 17 per cent in Norway and 20 per cent in Denmark, according to the data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

The TUC said the research showed domestic factors, such as the economic cycle and employment regulation, played a bigger role in job security than globalisation.

General secretary John Monks said the report exploded myths about globalisation.

He said: "One myth is it makes jobs insecure in developed countries or insecurity is a price that must be paid for economic growth.

"There are big differences between comparable countries and this can only be due to differences in employment rights, culture and comparative economic performance."

Katja Klasson, CBI head of employee relations, said: "Perception of job security is often worse than the reality.

"The average amount of time spent in a job has only slightly decreased in the last 20 years and, for women, it has actually risen.

"Addressing job fears is not about excessive protection for existing jobs. It is about allowing a flexible labour market that encourages job creation. Workers want the confidence they can find another job when needed. This is a lot easier in the UK."