Employment growth picks up in Scotland

Marchís Bank of Scotland Labour Market Report signalled that labour market conditions in Scotland remained positive, with both permanent and temporary employment growth accelerating. Further increases in wages and salaries have also been recorded, reflecting strong demand for staff and skill shortages.

The reportís labour market barometer was unchanged from Februaryís 60.3, indicating firm job market conditions in Scotland. The index was broadly in line with the equivalent barometer for the wider UK economy.

Demand was strongest for permanent Nursing/Medical/Care staff and temporary Engineering and Construction workers.

Tim Crawford, Group Economist at Bank of Scotland, commented: ìMarchís survey shows that employment growth in Scotland has firmed. However, wages and salaries continue to rise as companies compete for qualified staff. Skill shortages are also more of an issue in Scotland than in other parts of the UK.î

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