DEMAND for staff increased strongly in Scotland in April putting upward pressure on wages, a study has found.

A survey of recruitment consultants in Scotland by IHS Markit found demand for permanent staff improved markedly and at a faster rate than the UK average. Temporary staff vacancies rose at the fastest pace in five months, ahead of the UK. The report underlined the strength of demand for IT staff.

The Recruitment and Employment Confederation’s Tom Hadley said: “For individuals, now is a good time to look for a new job, as you are in a strong position to negotiate higher pay.”