An estimated 530,000 jobs in Scotland depend on demand for Scotland’s goods and services from the rest of the UK, according to research by the University of Strathclyde’s Fraser of Allander Institute for the UK government.

By comparison, roughly 125,000 jobs in Scotland are supported by export demand from the rest of the EU, and about 175,000 jobs are supported by export demand from the rest of the world, the research found.

The research indicated Scotland sells goods and services worth an estimated £49.8 billion to the rest of the UK and £12.3 billion to the EU.

Around two thirds of Scottish jobs that depend on exports to the rest of the UK are in the services sector and just under one third are in manufacturing and construction.

“These figures demonstrate clearly the value of the UK market to Scottish businesses – which is worth four times that of the EU market.

“As we leave the EU, it is vital we maintain the integrity of the UK market and prevent any new barriers to doing business across the UK.

“We have seen recent worrying figures showing the Scottish economy contracting, compared to the UK economy growing overall.

“So, at this time, it is more important than ever that Scotland’s two governments work together for the benefit of people in Scotland.”