Unemployment has risen again in Scotland while falling elsewhere in the UK, figures released today have revealed.
The jobless number north of the border rose by 11,000 between July and September, but dropped by more than 100,000 elsewhere.
In August figures revealed a similar trend, and it means the Scottish unemployment rate is now at six per cent, compared to just 5.3 per cent for the rest of Britain.
The Scottish Conservatives have called on the SNP to explain why its performance in getting people back into work is poorer than the UK Government’s.
Scottish Conservative finance spokesman Murdo Fraser said:
“There have been several occasions recently where there has been a clear difference in the unemployment trends between Scotland and England.
“These are going in opposite directions, and it’s jobseekers in Scotland who are losing out.
“When unemployment in Scotland was below the UK rate, the SNP were quick to claim credit.
“Now the Scottish Government has to explain why it’s not creating as favourable an environment for jobs as the UK Government seems to be.
“If the SNP doesn’t start getting this right, and helps businesses to create jobs, Scotland risks being left behind.
“It’s time for the Scottish Government to stop moaning about the powers it doesn’t have, and make at least some kind of effort with the ones it does.”