Finance Secretary John Swinney today welcomed National Statistics figures which show a continuing rise in employment in Scotland and a further fall in unemployment.

Employment rose by 16,000 over the quarter between March and May 2008 and the employment rate also increased slightly, by 0.3 percentage points to 76.8 per cent according to labour market statistics published today. Scotland's employment rate remains higher than the UK average at 74.9 per cent.

International Labour Organization (ILO) unemployment in Scotland fell by 25,000 over the quarter and the year. The unemployment rate also fell over the quarter by 0.9 percentage points to 4.0 per cent, which is its lowest since records began in 1992. This is lower than the UK average rate of 5.2 per cent.

“The figures indicate underlying strengths of Scotland’s economy, although no open economy is immune to global developments and we cannot afford to be complacent,” said Swinney. “In growth terms, the Scottish economy has lagged behind that of the UK for too long, which is why this Government is to committed to increasing sustainable economic growth in Scotland.
 
“We have a highly skilled workforce and a world class reputation in key business areas. We will continue to build on our strengths to make Scotland a more competitive place where more people can find work in well paid and rewarding employment.”