Washington, Aug. 7 -- Total nonfarm payroll employment in the United States declined by 23,000 in July while the overall unemployment rate showed little change at 4.1 per cent, according to figures released by the US Bureau of Labour Statistics.

The latest figures indicated a shift following a period of modest growth in the national job market in July.

"Total nonfarm payroll employment changed little in July (-23,000), following an average monthly gain of 34,000 over the prior 12 months," the US Bureau of Labour Statistics stated in its report.

Employment declines were concentrated in specific sectors during the month. Local government education experienced a drop of 50,000 jobs after showing minimal net change over the previous year....