Record Increase In Female Employment

The SNP has welcomed figures published today which show the largest ever annual increase in female employment, with 62,000 more women being supported into work in 2013.

As well as the record increase in female employment, the ONS statistics show that Scotland’s unemployment and employment rates are the most positive in the UK, with unemployment continuing to fall and employment continuing to rise.

Commenting, Aberdeen South and North Kincardine MSP Maureen Watt said:

“These figures are more good news for the Scottish economy and are a welcome endorsement of the Scottish Government’s efforts to boost the economy and create jobs.

“The record increase in female employment is particularly welcome, but while we are heading in the right direction, there is more that could be done.

“Scotland’s Future set out the Scottish Government’s plans for a truly transformational universal childcare system, which would open the door for even more women to get back into the workplace.

“With the limited powers of devolution, the Scottish Government has managed to mitigate the worst excesses of Westminster’s cuts.  With the full powers of independence, we will be able to take action to grow the economy, create more jobs and ensure that more women have the opportunity to take them up.”