STUC on Labour Market Statistics

March 17th 2010

STUC on Labour Market Statistics

March 17th 2010

Commenting on the publication of the latest labour market statistics for Scotland, Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) General Secretary, Grahame Smith, said: "The small drop in claimant count unemployment confirmed today cannot be allowed to mask what is overall a very grim picture. Over the last year unemployment in Scotland has risen almost twice as quickly as for the UK as a whole; by 16,000 over the last quarter alone. "With the economy continuing to face some very profound challenges, Budget 2010 will be crucially important in helping to support a recovery from recession that is robust, demand-led and sustainable. “Scotland needs a Budget aimed at supporting its workers and communities; not one designed to appease the deficit hawks who would gladly sacrifice growth, jobs and fairness in order to have a kick at public services. ENDS For further information please contact Stephen Boyd 0141 337 8100