Scottish jobs market remains stable
16 June 2008
The Bank of Scotland Labour Market Report shows a slight decline in the rate of jobs growth in Scotland in May.

Overall, however, employment growth has been broadly unchanged during the last three months. Although temporary/contract staff billings dropped slightly on the month and stronger increases in wages and salaries were recorded, growth of permanent staff placements improved. Demand for staff in Scotland continued to increase at a faster pace than for the UK as a whole.

The report's Labour Market Barometer slipped marginally to 53.3 from 53.5 in April, signalling a slower rate of improvement in overall Scottish job market conditions but was still above the equivalent index for the UK as a whole (49.6).

At a sector level, Nursing/Medical/Care remained the most sought-after job category for both permanent and temporary staff.

Martin Ellis, Chief Economist at Bank of Scotland, commented: "Jobs growth in Scotland remains relatively firm despite a moderating in market conditions since last summer. Demand for staff and permanent staff placement growth is steady and is stronger than in other parts of the UK. A number of sectors have shown notable resilience, with demand for healthcare professionals especially firm."

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