Tourism and jobs boost ‘down to referendum’

Rising tourism, investment and employment in Scotland is down to the “halo effect” of the independence referendum, according to First Minister Alex Salmond.
By MARK MCLAUGHLIN
Published 12th Jun 2014, 02:06 BST
Increases were largely due to Scotlands increased international profile, the First Minister said. Picture: Sandy YoungIncreases were largely due to Scotlands increased international profile, the First Minister said. Picture: Sandy Young
Increases were largely due to Scotlands increased international profile, the First Minister said. Picture: Sandy Young

He said the recent 20 per cent rise in tourism, 8 per cent increase in inward investment and yesterday’s figures on a record surge in employment were largely due to Scotland’s increased international profile as a result of the referendum, the Year of Homecoming, the Ryder Cup and Commonwealth Games.

He contrasted this with the “lies and scaremongering” of Chancellor George Osborne and the No campaign.

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He also confirmed his intention to stand again for First Minister in 2016 “under any constitutional circumstances”, even if there is a No vote.

Mr Salmond said: “This week we have had reports showing a surge of inward investment in Scotland, second only to London in these islands.

“We have had a 20% increase in tourism to Scotland this year, and the job market figures in terms of the demand for labour and of course the employment figures this morning, which show the strength of Scotland.

“Much of that has happened because Scotland has been in the news. We are seeing a surge in investment - we are seeing the halo effect.

Related topics:Alex SalmondScotlandFirst MinisterLondon