EMPLOYMENT IN SCOTLAND RISES TO RECORD HIGH

CONTINUED GROWTH IN SCOTLAND DESPITE WESTMINSTER SHAMBLES

SNP MSP Colin Beattie has praised new figures showing that Scotland's employment rate has risen to 75.9% - the highest on record.

Figures released by the Office for National Statistics show that Scotland’s employment rate rose to 75.9% for February to April 2019, and the unemployment rate fell once again to 3.3% - lower than the UK for the ninth month in a row.

Scotland's female employment rate (for 16-64 year olds) also hit a new record high of 72.7%, and the youth unemployment rate fell to a low 6.1%.

The SNP in government has supported job creation by publishing a new Labour Market Strategy, slashing or abolishing business rates for 100,000 premises – saving small businesses £1.2 billion so far - delivering opportunities for 200,000 Modern Apprentices since 2007, and increasing college funding.

Colin Beattie MSP said:

“It is extremely encouraging to see that economic growth in Scotland is exceeding expectations and breaking records – benefitting people in Midlothian, East Lothian and across the country.

“These latest figures show the success of the Scottish Government’s approach, focused on building a strong economy, investing in business and enterprise and supporting the industries of the future.

“This success is welcome, but the shambles at Westminster continues to pose a real threat to Scottish jobs and household incomes.

“People and businesses in Midlothian and East Lothian will be understandably concerned with the complete lack of clarity from the UK Government, especially this close to the Brexit deadline.

“In contrast, the Scottish Government is offering stability and certainty, and as a result, the Scottish economy continues to strengthen.”