Newly published figures have shown a record fall in unemployment in Scotland and strong growth in the Scottish economy.
Labour market statistics published today show that the number of people unemployed in Scotland has fallen by a record 40,000 – as Scotland’s employment rate of 73.9 per cent continues to outpace the UK’s rate of 73.0 per cent.
The figures come on the same day as figures show that the Scottish economy continues to grow – with strong growth figures of 0.9 per cent in Scotland.
The number of women in employment in Scotland also stands at a record high of 1,284,000 – with the female employment rate in Scotland standing at 71.4 per cent compared to a UK figure of 68.1 per cent.
Commenting, SNP MSP Maureen Watt said:
“These figures are a welcome endorsement of the Scottish Government’s efforts to boost the economy and create jobs in the face of the UK Government’s austerity agenda.
“That female employment is standing at a record high is particularly welcome and testament to the Scottish Government’s success in this area.
“John Swinney’s budget last week set out a series of key measures to boost employment in Scotland even further – including £16m extra investment to tackle youth unemployment and a £4.5bn investment in infrastructure projects.
“With the limited economic powers currently in Scotland’s hands, the Scottish Government has managed to take action to mitigate the worst excesses of Westminster cuts.
“But with extensive new powers over the economy we can take stronger action to end Westminster’s austerity agenda, invest further in our public services and create more and better jobs here in Scotland.
“These extensive new powers were promised to Scotland during the referendum – Westminster simply must deliver. Failure to do so would be completely unacceptable.”
By Tony Connelly
