Alarm bells are ringing about Scotland’s economic future, Jackie Baillie said today.

Labour’s Economy Spokesperson accused the SNP Government of having their ‘heads in the sand’ over the condition of the Scottish economy as: 

• New labour market figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show employment has fallen, the only area of the UK to experience a decline, whilst economic inactivity has increased in Scotland
• Analysis from Fraser of Allander Institute/PwC has warned Scotland is ‘flirting with recession’
• The possibility of Brexit looms over Scottish jobs, business and trade.

Labour is urging a Remain vote on 23 June, and called on the SNP to take urgent action to stop the economy tipping into recession, and use the new powers to invest in education and skills for the long term. 

Scottish Labour Economy spokesperson Jackie Baillie said:

“Alarm bells are ringing about Scotland’s economic future. Warning signs are coming through loud and clear. 

“The immediate threat of Brexit to Scottish jobs and trade is one which we must all take seriously. Labour will be making the case that Scotland’s future is brighter in the European Union relentlessly between now and 23 June. 

“However, there are also concerning signs about the overall state of the economy in Scotland over the last couple of years, which is markedly different to the rest of the UK. The employment rate is falling and economic inactivity is rising and on the same day independent economists are warning that Scotland is flirting with recession. 

“In the short term we must remain in the EU, but there is a duty on the SNP Government to use the new powers of the Scottish Parliament to promote effective economic growth. We can’t wait any longer – there is a need for urgent action right now. For Labour that means taking action to give our workforce the skills they need to compete for the jobs of the future by investing in education and skills. 

“The SNP Government in Edinburgh need to take their heads out of the sand.” <