SCC comment on Scottish unemployment figures

Commenting on the publication of official figures which show that Scottish unemployment fell by 7,000 in the three months to April 2014, Liz Cameron, Chief Executive of Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:

“This latest welcome fall in Scotland’s level of unemployment is further evidence of increasing confidence in a strengthening economy.  There has been a downward trend in unemployment for some time now and this has been accompanied by an increase in employment, which has grown by 48,000 over the past year.

“All of this is good news but as the appetite of business for skilled workers grows, we must also ensure that the supply of skills matches emerging demand.  That is why we believe that last week’s report by the Commission for Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce, chaired by Sir Ian Wood, requires urgent action from Government, the education system and business.  Getting the balance right between vocational and academic training, effective and accurate careers guidance and early involvement by businesses in schools are essential if we are to tackle skills shortages and create more job opportunities.

“Our economy is growing and the time is now right to ensure that the recovery is sustainable.”