SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson, John Mason MP, has today (Wednesday) welcomed the latest figures from the Scottish Government which show a fall in Scottish unemployment. The statistics come as the Office of National Statistics reported a rise in UK unemployment.

Across Scotland, the unemployment rate declined to 6.9 per cent, with 2,000 fewer people unemployed than in the previous month.  At the UK level, unemployment increased by 21,000 and the UK unemployment rate was 7.9 per cent over the same period.

The Scottish Government also announced a rise in the number of police and NHS staff.

Commenting, East End MP John Mason said: “The recession is hitting homes and high streets across the UK but action taken by the SNP Government - including our economic recovery plan and accelerated capital spending - have lessened the impact in Scotland.

“This just underlines how irresponsible the UK Treasury are being by slashing Scotland’s budget and cutting off the capital funding. It is a cruel blow at a crucial time and the UK Government must reconsider.

“The SNP wants to invest in the Scottish recovery but Westminster is holding Scotland back.

Mr Mason added: “Despite the massive cut to the Scottish Government’s budget, the SNP continue to invest record amounts in ensuring a safer, healthier Scotland.”