Scots unemployment on the rise

THE number of Scots out of work has risen again, according to official statistics released today.

Unemployment increased by 13,000 to 231,000, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The Scottish unemployment rate is now 8.6 per cent, above the UK average rate of 7.7 per cent.

But today's figures, for June to August this year, indicate that employment in Scotland increased by 10,000 over this period and now stands at 2,452,000. This takes into account an influx of new workers into the labour market, such as graduating students, over the period.

Scottish Secretary Michael Moore said: "The coalition Government is taking real steps to ensure we create a secure economy which in turn creates long-term, quality jobs.

"I welcome the news the number of people receiving Jobseeker's Allowance fell last month. A lot of work is needed to create a long-lasting labour market recovery and we have already begun that task.

"Only a balanced economy will guarantee the necessary investment for new jobs. The Spending Review is a crucial stepping stone on the way to recovery.

"It is not just about cuts and tackling the deficit, but laying the groundwork for future growth."

In September 2010, the number of people out of work and claiming Jobseekers Allowance (JSA) was 134,500. This represents a fall of 1,100 over the month and is the sixth fall over the last eight months.