Scotland's Economy

  • The Chancellor’s statement largely bypasses devolution.

    13th July 2020 by

    The temporary localised restrictions in Leicester and Dumfries, and further afield in Melbourne and Catalonia, remind us of the continuing threat posed by coronavirus (COVID-19). They also highlight the importance of rapid, targeted action in dealing with the pandemic. Robust national and international structures are of course essential, but to eradicate the virus we also...

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  • Response to UK Government Summer Statement

    8th July 2020 by

    Responding the UK Chancellor’s Summer Statement today, Finance Secretary Kate Forbes said: “We called for an £80bn stimulus package to build a strong, green and inclusive economic recovery and while there are elements in this announcement to be welcomed, in particular the measures on VAT for tourism and hospitality, overall this package is a huge...

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  • Labour market statistics show impact of pandemic

    16th June 2020 by

    Between February and April 2020, Scotland’s employment rate estimate fell over the quarter to 74.3% and the unemployment rate estimate rose over the quarter to 4.6%.

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  • Construction industry takes next step towards COVID-19 recovery

    11th June 2020 by

    The Construction industry is moving to the next phase of its restart plan in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

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  • Scotland needs more financial powers to manage COVID-19

    9th June 2020 by

    by Finance Secretary Kate Forbes The coronavirus pandemic is the greatest health and economic challenge of our lifetimes. It has required an unprecedented response from government to ensure our NHS has the capacity and equipment needed to respond to the health crisis and to help businesses manage the economic impact. Looking ahead, our economic focus...

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  • COVID-19: Safe working guidance and restart plan for forestry industry

    30th May 2020 by

    Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing Easing out of lockdown will only be successful if we do so gradually and cautiously. The focus of the Scottish Government remains on tackling the virus, protecting public health and saving lives, but we are also acutely aware of the need to support vital sectors of the economy, such as...

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  • COVID-19: Updated guidance for construction sector

    28th May 2020 by

    By Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning Kevin Stewart With the gradual easing of lockdown it is vitally important that we publish updated guidance for the construction sector to help it restart safely and recover from the damaging impact of COVID-19. The focus of the Scottish Government remains on tackling the virus, protecting public...

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  • Labour market statistics update – Business Minister Jamie Hepburn

    19th May 2020 by

    Between January and March 2020, Scotland’s employment rate estimate fell over the quarter to 74.7% and the unemployment rate estimate rose over the quarter to 4.1%. While these rates compare well against historical records, they do not reflect fully the unprecedented impact of the pandemic and how it will change over time. The Job Retention...

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  • Scottish Apprenticeship Week

    2nd March 2020 by

    When I visited Arnold Clark’s training facility in Glasgow recently I couldn’t help but be impressed. Yes, the facilities are great and the investment in staff is clearly a priority. But what impressed me the most was the enthusiastic group of young female automotive apprentices I met, and the support they were getting both from...

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  • Digital skills success – first graduates from £1 million scheme

    21st January 2020 by

    People out of work and those on low incomes have been helped to develop their digital skills through a new fund. Digital Economy Minister Kate Forbes met with some of the first beneficiaries of the £1 million Digital Start Fund, who have graduated from CodeClan, to hear how the specialist training has helped them achieve...

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