British business is suffering from a growing ‘talent drain’ as more and more workers seek jobs overseas.

Employees are being tempted abroad by greater career opportunities and higher salaries, according to a quality of life report, commissioned by NatWest.

Of the 200,000 Brits who emigrated in 2006, two-thirds left specifically to pursue their careers.

The report discovered that the typical ex-pat is no longer a retiree soaking up the sun but a middle-aged professional looking for a better job.

Dave Isley, head of NatWest International Personal Banking, said: “The study demonstrates the popularity among Britons of working abroad, particularly those who are highly skilled.

“This trend will increase as countries continue to seek out the talents of British workers and entice them to foreign climes with better career opportunities and the chance to experience life abroad.

“Whether it is a permanent move abroad, or for a short period of time, it seems working abroad is an opportunity increasingly open to more employees.”