Commenting on the publication of the latest labour market statistics for Scotland, Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) General Secretary, Grahame Smith, said: "The small drop in claimant count unemployment confirmed today cannot be allowed to mask what is overall a very grim picture. Over the last year unemployment in Scotland has risen almost twice as quickly as for the UK as a whole; by 16,000 over the last quarter alone. "With the economy continuing to face some very profound challenges, Budget 2010 will be crucially important in helping to support a recovery from recession that is robust, demand-led and sustainable. “Scotland needs a Budget aimed at supporting its workers and communities; not one designed to appease the deficit hawks who would gladly sacrifice growth, jobs and fairness in order to have a kick at public services. ENDS For further information please contact Stephen Boyd 0141 337 8100