Scottish jobs market 'still improving'

The report suggested both permanent and temporary staff appointments increased

Scottish recruitment agencies have reported the UK's fastest growth in permanent staff placements since May.

The latest Bank of Scotland Report on Jobs said its survey signalled a further improvement in Scottish labour market conditions in October.

The picture contrasted with that of the UK as a whole, which indicated a deterioration in the jobs market.

In Scotland, the survey suggested both permanent and temporary staff appointments increased.

Recruitment agencies attributed this to greater client demand.

Overall, average salaries rose, while candidate availability increased again.

'Further improvement'

The bank's jobs barometer - a composite indicator designed to provide a single-figure snapshot of labour market conditions - registered 53.9 in October, up from 53.3 in September.

This was higher than the UK as a whole, which fell below the 50.0 no-change mark to indicate a deterioration in the overall UK jobs market.

Dundee continued to report the strongest increase in permanent jobs north of the border.

Aberdeen-based recruiters registered the fastest rise in temp staff billings.

Bank of Scotland chief economist Donald MacRae said: "The October results signalled another month of improvement in Scotland's labour market.

"Both the number of people employed and vacancies advertised grew, maintaining the lead over the UK.

"However, this improving trend will be challenging to maintain in the face of the global slowdown.

"Nevertheless, the Scottish economy is demonstrating resilience in difficult conditions."

The Bank of Scotland Report on Jobs is compiled by Markit and is based on a monthly survey of more than 100 recruitment and employment consultants.