Scotland continues to ‘punch above weight’ in contribution to UK economy

Official output figures for 2014 show that Scotland is continuing to ‘punch above its weight’, the Scottish Government has said.

The SNP administration has welcomed new figures released today by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) that reveal that last year Scotland had the highest Gross Value Added (GVA) per head of population of any region or nation in the UK – outside of London and the South East – at £23,102.

Stewart Hosie MP, the SNP deputy leader and economy spokesperson, said: “Today’s ONS figures show - once again - that Scotland continues to punch above its weight in its contribution to the UK economy.

“The strong showing for Scotland is testament to the successful economic policies of the SNP government, from crucial infrastructure investment to vital support for small businesses. This has resulted in record numbers of registered businesses in Scotland, increased productivity, growing value of international exports, and record employment.

“These figures also provide more evidence of Scotland’s ability to successfully adapt to changing economic conditions and is a credit to the people who live, work, and run businesses across the country.”

London’s GVA per person was £42,666, the south east of England £27,012 while the south west was £22,324, the west Midlands £20,086 and the north east £18,216.

Wales had the lowest GVA per person at just £17,573.