Official figures published yesterday by Scotland's Chief Statistician show retail sales in Scotland grew by 0.5 per cent over the year, matching growth in Great Britain (GB).
Date:
Thu, 03 Nov 2011
Source:
Scottish Government
Scottish Government:
Website
Retail sales in the third quarter of 2011 fell by 0.3 per cent, but growth in the second quarter was revised up to 0.5 per cent.
Commenting on the figures Finance Secretary John Swinney said: "Our annual retail growth is on par with GB levels, however sales have fallen away in the last quarter and this is a further warning that we need the Westminster government to act now and implement a Plan MacB.
"This should focus on increased capital investment, improved access to finance as well as the introduction of measures to boost economic security.
"The Scottish Government is using all the powers within our disposal to enhance economic and consumer confidence in the face of difficult economic conditions. We have implemented a no compulsory redundancy policy for staff under our control and are delivering on our commitment to a 'social wage'.
"Measures like the council tax freeze and free prescriptions are helping to protect household budgets from rising inflation and higher UK taxes, such as the VAT increase earlier in the year.
"In addition, with control of the main economic and financial levers, such as corporation tax and borrowing powers the Scottish Government could do more to maximise our economic potential."
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