The Scottish labour market saw a further drop in hiring activity during May, according to the latest RBS Report on Jobs.
Lingering economic uncertainty continued to discourage both workers and firms alike, although the latest survey signalled a softer downturn in permanent placements, as some recruiters were able to fill long-standing vacancies and organise hires for new projects.
Demand trends weakened, with growth in permanent vacancies slipping to a 27-month low, and temporary vacancies falling for the fifth straight month. As a result, pay pressures showed signs of easing in May.