SCOTTISH companies are among the best in the UK when it comes to paying interns, according to research from the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).

It found that only three per cent of internships offered by Scottish businesses and those in London were unpaid, the joint best in the UK.

In the south west of England the figure was far higher at 19 per cent while Yorkshire was 14 per cent.

Although half of Scottish companies have never hired an intern this was second only to London region in the UK where it was 38 per cent.

Craig Vickery, head of ACCA Scotland, said: "The survey shows very positive results for Scotland. Scottish companies are making real progress in offering a young people a chance in the job market. One of the biggest barriers young people face when entering the job market is the lack of experience, and paid internships are a great way to help bridge that gap.

"Critics may point to the fact that half of companies have never employed an intern but put in the context of other areas of the UK, only London scored higher.

"It was also heartening to see that 58 per cent of the internships offered were of a significant period of time, lasting between four weeks and six months, this is giving those undertaking them good solid work experience to put on their CV."