Scottish unemployment falls to lowest rate since 1992

16 April 2019, 11:27

The unemployment rate in Scotland has fallen to 3.3%, with employment up by 0.3%, according to official statistics.

ONS figures published on Tuesday show that the total number of people employed in Scotland rose to a record 2,688,000 between December last year and February 2019 - up from 2,671,000 in the previous period.

It represents an employment rate of 75.6% across the country.

A total of 93,000 working-age people were unemployed during the period, down from 101,000 between September and November last year.

Acorss the UK, the unemployment rate was 3.9% - down by 0.1% on the previous quarter and lower than at any time since the end of 1975.

Economy Secretary Derek Mackay said: "Despite the huge and continued challenges of Brexit, the Scottish economy and jobs market continues to strengthen," said Mr Mackay.

"While Scotland's economy and job market continues to grow, the UK Government's Brexit plans, in whatever form, will cost jobs, make people poorer and damage our society.

"It is essential the extension granted by the EU is used constructively and not wasted.

"The ongoing talks over the EU exit must include the devolved administrations, and for any deal agreed by the UK Parliament to be put to a second referendum.

"However, as a responsible government we will also continue our work to prepare for all outcomes as best we can."

Scottish Secretary David Mundell said: "It is great news that unemployment in Scotland is at a record low, coupled with the rise in employment, there is a lot to be positive about.

"Scotland's two governments are working together to strengthen our economy and create jobs, with our growth deal programme reaping rewards across the nation.

"The UK Government's investment in growth deals is now more than £1.35 billion, showing our huge commitment to growing Scotland's job sector and economy."