Jobs market expanding at slowest pace for almost two years

Donald MacRae says the jobs market shows signs of cooling

Growth in Scotland’s jobs market has weakened, with the slowest rise in permanent appointments for 22 months, according to a report published today.

The Bank of Scotland also said the number of people placed in temporary roles fell last month as the supply of available candidates deteriorated.

Despite the slowdown revealed by its report on jobs, the bank said the labour market continues to grow. Its “barometer” reading of 60 was the lowest since September 2013 and down from 63.2 in December, but remains well above the 50 level that separates growth from contraction.