Scotland’s onshore gross domestic product (GDP) fell by 0.2% in July, according to the latest estimates from the Scottish Government.

The decline comes after a fall of 0.8% in June and means GDP is just 0.1% higher than the pre-pandemic level in February 2020.

GDP growth during the second quarter of 2022 is estimated to have been flat at 0%.

Deputy First minister John Swinney said: “We are in regular dialogue with business organisations and leaders and support their calls for UK ministers to reduce VAT rates and respond to staff shortages.

“I will outline our response in an emergency budget review next month but most economic levers remain with the UK Government.

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