The challenges facing the Scottish economy were clear in the figures but those who delight in adversity for Scotland for political reasons should contemplate a few things before grinning smugly, writes Business Editor Ian McConnell.

The challenges facing the Scottish economy were highlighted again last week in the latest official gross domestic product figures.

Data published by the Scottish Government’s chief economist directorate showed the nation’s onshore GDP contracted by 0.3% month-on-month in July. In the UK as a whole, GDP was flat in July.

However, before those who delight in adversity for Scotland for political reasons allow themselves a smug grin, a few points are worth noting.

Clearly, the economic fortunes of Scotland are inextricably linked to those of the rest of the UK. That should go without saying.

The UK economy has for many years now, long before Labour came to power, been struggling. And Brexit continues to compound the UK economy’s woes hugely.

It is good to see senior

© Herald Scotland