THE employment rate in Scotland rose to a record high between February and April this year, new figures show.
Data published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) indicate that the rate of people between the age of 16 and 64 in employment in the country increased to 75.9% – a rise by 0.6% on the previous period.
The employment rate across the UK was 76.1%, remaining the same as it was in the previous period.
The number of people over the age of 16 who were unemployed decreased by 0.1% to stand at a rate of 3.3%.
It represents a lower unemployment rate than in the rest of the UK, where the figure was 3.8%.
Youth unemployment was down by 2.8% on a year ago, dropping to 6.1%.
Across the UK, the figure fell by 0.7% on a year ago to 10.1%.
Scotland's employment rate for women rose to 72.7%, higher than the UK rate of 72%, whilst the employment rate for young people in Scotland also rose, to 59.4%, higher than the UK rate of 54%.
Scotland's unemployment rate for women fell over the year to 2.9%, compared with 3.7% for the UK.
Employment Minister Jamie Hepburn said: "Yet again we're seeing records broken in Scotland's labour market.
"Despite the UK Government's EU exit plans, Scotland's economy and jobs market continues to perform consistently well. And the Scottish Government's commitment to fair work for all is again reflected in these results.
"The Scottish Government has consistently been clear that the best option for the future wellbeing and prosperity of Scotland is to stay in the European Union. Otherwise we will see people become poorer and lose their jobs."
Scottish Secretary David Mundell said: "It is encouraging to see that the number of people employed in Scotland is at a record high, while unemployment continues to fall.
"The UK Government is investing in Scotland's economy including more than £1.35 billion in city and growth deals, creating opportunities, jobs and long-term growth.
"Our investment is having a real impact and I urge the Scottish Government to work with us to ensure this continues."
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