Commenting on the news that unemployment in Scotland rose by 4,000 in the three months to July, Liz Cameron, Chief Executive of Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:
'Scottish businesses have had a tough year and it is disappointing that unemployment has risen again after five consecutive months of decline. It is also particularly concerning that this bucks a trend of an overall fall in unemployment at a UK level and that this has, as a result, pushed the Scottish rate of unemployment above the UK average.
'The best way to tackle unemployment is to support those who create wealth and jobs in our economy, namely private sector businesses, and to ensure that those entering the labour market are equipped with the skills that employers need to succeed. This means that Governments at a UK and Scottish level must work together to enable new opportunities for business and to focus on meeting current and future skills requirements.
'The fact that the number of those in employment continues to rise shows that, even in challenging times, businesses continue to create jobs. However with expectations of a flat economy for at least the remainder of this year, businesses will need more support if they are to take on more staff.
'Scottish Chambers of Commerce are working to support businesses across the country through the Business Mentoring Scotland programme and we are working to help develop new employment opportunities through the Graduate Employment Incentive scheme. We believe in the huge potential that exists in Scotland's businesses and its people and we will continue to work with the Scottish and UK Governments to foster success.'
