Newly published estimates show there were 2.46m payrolled employees in Scotland in February 2024 – the second highest since the series began in July 2014, and 24,000 more than the previous year.

However, the Scottish Government says UK changes to immigration policy will continue to present challenges for industry to access the international labour market that sectors such as soft fruit and construction rely on.

Scottish government minister Màiri McAllan said: “The increase in the number of payrolled employees in Scotland over the year is welcome.

“However, the data also reflects the ongoing challenges facing the UK economy including recession, inflationary pressures and the continuing impacts of Brexit.

"The Scottish Government remains committed to using the limited powers of devolution to support more people into work through employability and skills support.

“To achieve our vision to create a more prosperous, fairer and greener economy, we are working to tackle inequalities in Scotland’s labour market by helping people into sustainable employment. This includes expanding provision of high quality funded childcare to support more parents, and those with caring responsibilities.

“The Scottish Government also continues to support and promote flexible working from day one of employment. The Scottish Government’s forthcoming Green Industrial Strategy will help businesses and investors realise the enormous economic opportunities of the global transition to net zero and create well-paid green jobs across Scotland.”