³ÉÈËÂÛ̳

The number of Scots looking for work rose over the summer, according to the latest unemployment figures.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said up to 4.3% of the workforce was seeking employment from May to July, matching the rate of unemployment for the UK as a whole.

Scotland's rate had been lower than the UK for the previous 12 months, and at low rates by pre-pandemic standards.

The ONS estimates 122,000 Scots were looking for work in early summer.

Its projections, based on the labour force survey, point to a drop in the number counted as "economically inactive", including those who have long-term illness, students and those caring for family.

The overall employment rate was 1.2% up on the previous quarter in Scotland.

Meanwhile, the unemployment rate for men aged 16-plus rose over the quarter to 4.8%, while the unemployment rate for women aged 16-plus increased to 3.8%.

The Scottish government said the figures reflected the challenges facing the economy and vowed to support flexible working and investment in training.

Wellbeing Economy Secretary Neil Gray said: "The rise in the employment rate over the quarter and fall in the inactivity rate are welcome.

"The increase in the unemployment rate over the quarter and the year for those aged 16 and over across Scotland reflects the ongoing challenges facing the economy amid the ongoing cost of living crisis, compounded by high inflation and interest rates.

"The Scottish government is committed to supporting more people into work - including those with a disability, those with health conditions and those with caring responsibilities - through employability and skills support as well as continuing to support and promote flexible working."

Mr Gray added that industries such as hospitality and agriculture were still facing recruitment challenges and called for an urgent reassessment of UK government immigration policy to increase access to international labour and skills.

Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said: "Even in the face of global challenges, Scotland's job market has remained resilient. Since 2010, the number of people in work in Scotland has increased by over 200,000.

"But we know there is more to do to help people find and succeed in fulfilling jobs."