Scottish GDP grew by 0.8% in the first half of this year compared to 0.6% in the UK, according to new statistics from Scotland’s chief statistician.

This growth in the first six months of 2018 is greater than the 0.7% growth forecast made by Scottish Fiscal Commission for 2018 as a whole.

Scotland’s growth has been supported by the production sector which grew by 4.6% over the past 12 months, the sector’s fastest rate of growth since 2014.

Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Economy and Fair Work, Derek Mackay, said: “These are welcome figures which show that Scottish growth is both pulling ahead of the UK, and outperforming the official growth forecast.

“The Scottish Government is focused on building on the country’s strong economic foundations, supporting businesses to stimulate growth jobs and investment.

“Our Programme for Government includes an ambitious package of measures to ensure we are delivering for the economy of today and ready to seize the opportunities of the future.

“With an unemployment rate of 4.1% and a higher employment rate for women and young people compared to the UK, confidence remains high in our labour market.

“The Royal Bank of Scotland PMI for August also shows private sector output at a four year high.

“However these statistics simply reinforce the urgent need to avoid the looming damage of Brexit, which threatens to undo much of the positive work we are doing to strengthen our economy.”