§ Mr. LazarowiczTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking in response to the loss of jobs in Scotland as a result of out-sourcing to other countries. [142710]
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§ Mrs. McGuireThe Government consider that the best response to low cost overseas competition is to encourage the development of higher quality, added value services. Our economic policies are creating an environment where this transition can occur.
The labour market in Scotland is healthier than it has been for decades. Employment is close to a record high and unemployment is around its lowest level since the 1970s. The prospects for the Scottish economy are good.