Commenting on the ONS labour market statistics for the three months up to September 2020, published today, Dr Liz Cameron, Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:

“As we see official statistics catch up and start to reflect the real impact on unemployment and job losses, it is clear to see the growing consequences of the pandemic on jobs in Scotland.

“The recent extension of the furlough scheme has offered Scottish businesses a glimmer of hope that they may be able to survive and work through this crisis. The extension will protect a significant number of jobs over this coming winter but it is clear that the furlough scheme alone will not be enough to save all jobs. Therefore, it’s essential that the UK Government continue and expand their commitment to providing businesses with guaranteed grants support to help businesses recover.

“Scottish businesses impacted by lockdown restrictions urgently require further cash flow support in the form of increased grant support, considering the delay to the job retention bonus and the remaining gaps in government support which need closing off as soon as possible.”