Unemployment Down

Unemployment in Scotland fell by 10,000, to 164,000 in the period July to September 2014, according to Office for National Statistics.

The Scottish unemployment rate is 5.9%, which is just below the rate of 6.0% for the whole of the UK.

The labour market statistics also show employment in Scotland has increased by 22,000 over the three months July to September. The number of those in employment in Scotland now stands at 2,605,000.
 
The Secretary of State for Scotland Alistair Carmichael said:
 
"People across Scotland will be glad to see the run of positive news on the economy continue with today's statistics showing a rise in employment.
 
"The Government's economic long-term is working and that means more opportunities across the country. People voted to stay part of a UK providing more jobs security and that is exactly what it is delivering for Scotland.
 
"Recent business surveys show the growth momentum continued in the last quarter of the year but we recognise that Scotland is not immune from international challenges like the issues in the Eurozone. We cannot afford to let up in our efforts to create a more resilient economy.

"I look forward working with the new First Minister and her team to build on this success. We share the same aim of creating a better Scotland and jobs will remain a key focus for both of Scotland's governments."