WIREDGOV

CBI Scotland's Industrial Trends Survey has reported an increase in output and new orders in the manufacturing sector - the first time growth has been reported since the first quarter of 2008, while the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Business Survey reported signs of an emerging recovery in manufacturing and tourism.

There was also positive news from the Scottish Retail Consortium Retail Sales Monitor for September, which reported growth of 4.2 per cent compared to last year.

Mr Swinney, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth, said:

"These results are further evidence of improved conditions in the Scottish economy following yesterday's GDP figures, which showed an easing in the rate of decline.

"Our business community rightly expects a Scottish Government focused on providing practical support to boost economic recovery.

"That is exactly what we are doing through our comprehensive economic recovery plan, which is supporting up to 15,000 jobs and providing vital support for sectors including construction, through our accelerated capital programme.

"We are always looking to do more to help businesses and householders through what are still challenging times. That's why our draft budget for 2010-11 includes further support for employment to boost recovery. And we are urging the Chancellor to allow us, in his Pre-Budget Report, to continue accelerating capital spending, providing extra support for our economy."

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