Scottish unemployment down but remains higher than UK average

Unemployment in Scotland fell by 18,000 in the period March to May 2016, and now stands at 152,000, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS) data released today.

The Scottish unemployment rate is 5.5 per cent, which is above the rate of 4.9 per cent for the whole of the UK.

The labour market statistics also show employment in Scotland increased by 17,000 over the three months March to May 2016. The number of those in employment in Scotland now stands at 2,625,000.

In June 2016, the number of people out of work and claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance was 56,600 and claimant count, including Universal Credit was 74,700.

The Secretary of State for Scotland, David Mundell, said: “It is positive news that employment in Scotland has risen and unemployment has fallen during the second quarter of 2016. That means more people in Scotland enjoying the security of a regular wage. But with Scotland’s economy showing little growth over the past year, and the country’s unemployment rate still higher than the UK overall, there is no room for complacency.

“The UK Government’s priority is working with the Scottish Government and other partners as ‘Team UK’, to make sure that we get the best deal for Scotland and the whole of the UK in the forthcoming negotiations with the EU. Our new Prime Minister has made clear she is determined to make this a government of opportunity, standing up for ordinary working people in Scotland and across the UK, and building a better future for our country. That means everyone working together to promote economic growth and prosperity.”