Focus on Jobs Pays Off As Unemployment Falls Further

FOCUS ON JOBS PAYS OFF AS UNEMPLOYMENT FALLS FURTHER

The number of Scots out of work has fallen further, with new figures showing the unemployment rate falling 1.7% over the year to 4.4% - lower than in England, Wales or Northern Ireland.

The figures, for January to March 2017, also show that the Scottish employment rate rose by 0.9% over the year to 74%.

Commenting, Patricia Gibson said:

“These are highly encouraging figures that show the SNP Government's focus on jobs is paying off. We'll continue to work hard to make Scotland the best country it can be.

“Nevertheless, with the Tories preparing to inflict yet more austerity and risk tens of thousands of Scottish jobs through a damaging Brexit, there’s no room for complacency.

“We’ll always welcome falling unemployment and rising employment. Sadly, many working families are being hammered by Tory cuts to working tax credits and the biggest squeeze on wages since the Second World War.

“Now more than ever, it is vital to have strong SNP voices standing up for Scotland.

“Only then can we protect Scotland from the dangers of an unchecked Tory Government at Westminster.”

https://news.gov.scot/news/unemployment-falls-2