Japan's industrial output jumps

Demand for Japanese cars has slumped during the global downturn

Japan's factory output has jumped at its fastest rate in more than 50 years, but higher unemployment figures have dampened hope of an early recovery.

Output rose by 5.2% in April from the previous month, the biggest monthly gain since 1953, official figures show.

The much bigger-than-expected rise is the second monthly increase in industrial production in a row.

However, separate figures showing unemployment hitting a five-year high dampened much of the optimism.

The jobless rate hit 5% in April, up from 4.8% in March.