Richard Lochhead

The data has also revealed that Scotland’s unemployment rate estimate decreased slightly over the quarter to 4.3%.

Separate HMRC early estimates, also published this morning, show 9,000 more payrolled employees in August than July 2021, however this is 25,000 fewer payrolled employees compared with February 2020, which reflects our gradual ongoing economic recovery from the pandemic.

Commenting on the latest publication of official ONS labour market statistics, employment minister Richard Lochhead said: “The Scottish Government will continue to do all we can to support employees and employers and we are carefully monitoring any impact on employment as the Job Retention Scheme unwinds at the end of this month.

“The furlough scheme has provided essential support to businesses and workers throughout the pandemic and is still needed as we move through recovery. We have repeatedly called on the UK Government to ensure furlough remains in place for as long as it is required but if it is removed, the UK Government must clarify as soon as possible what further assistance will be in place to support those most deeply impacted by the pandemic.”

He added: “In 2021/22 we will invest more than £1 billion to create jobs and ensure people have the skills needed to meet the economic opportunities of the future. We are also supporting our young people into work by providing a further £70 million for the Young Person’s Guarantee.

“Our 10 year National Strategy for Economic Transformation will set out our green economic recovery and how we will support new, good, green jobs, businesses and industries for the future. By working together we will seize Scotland’s potential and deliver greater, greener and fairer prosperity.”