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Scottish population highest since 1983
24/07/2008
Figures released today by the Registrar General show that last year Scotland's population rose to its hightest level since 1983.
The estimated population of Scotland was 5,144,200 in mid-2007. This was a rise of 27,300 people on the previous year.
Part of the reason for the increase was because the number of births was 1,100 higher than the number of deaths. But the increase was mostly due to migration. More than 63,000 people left Scotland - but nearly 90,000 arrived, mostly from the rest of the UK.
Cabinet Secretary for Sustainable Growth John Swinney said Scotland's rising population will be a key contributor to a more vibrant society and a more dynamic economy.
Mr Swinney said:
"For over four decades, Scotland has been a country of substantial net out-migration. Crucially, over the last 10 years in particular, our population growth has lagged well behind that of the UK.
"But these latest very positive population estimates show that we are beginning to turn the corner. Fewer people are leaving Scotland; large numbers are choosing to come here; and our birth rate is rising.
"An increasing population and a vibrant labour market have the potential to boost Scotland's economic growth and help our nation prosper.
"This Government is focused on making Scotland a more attractive place to live, work and invest in.
"Through our Government Economic Strategy, we have set ambitious national targets to increase sustainable economic growth in Scotland. No other government before has had such bold ambition for Scotland or the decisiveness required to achieve it."
The Government Economic Strategy sets out the route map for Scotland to match the GDP growth rate of small independent EU countries by 2017, as well as to match European (EU 15) population growth over the period to 2017.
Mr Swinney added:
"We recognise there is more to do and are developing Fresh Talent and other policies to ensure that we continue to attract more skilled workers to Scotland and retain more of our home-grown talent.
"Attracting and retaining skilled workers is key to increasing sustainable economic growth and turning around decades of demographic decline to put Scotland on course for long-term success."