SCC COMMENT ON SCOTTISH UNEMPLOYMENT

Commenting on the labour market statistics for December 2016, published today by the Office for National Statistics, Liz Cameron, Director and Chief Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:

“The rise in Scottish unemployment is an indicator of what could be expected in the economy as we look ahead to 2017. Triggered by uncertainty over Brexit and the increasing costs of doing business, these are potential signs that the labour market is cooling down. 

“As businesses plan ahead to manage uncertainty, both the Scottish and UK Governments can take immediate action to provide reassurance to businesses. The UK Government must guarantee that existing EU workers can stay and work in the UK, and the Scottish Government, has a golden opportunity during the Budget announcement tomorrow, to tackle the rising costs of business rates and provide a boost to business just when we need it most.”