KINGLASSIE MSP, Jenny Gilruth, has welcomed figures showing that the number of businesses in Fife is rising.

The Businesses in Scotland 2019 report shows that, as of March 2019, there were an estimated 356,550 private sector businesses operating in Scotland – the highest number since current records began in 2000.

In Fife, in 2019, there was a total of 10,355 businesses representing a turnover of £12.5 million. This is an increase of 1,495 businesses since 2010.

Commenting, the MSP for Glenrothes and Mid Fife said: “I am delighted by these very encouraging figures. Mid Fife and Glenrothes is very much open for business.

“I want to see Scotland recognised as one of the best places in the world to do business. Fife, with the creativity and ambition of its people, can be at the forefront of this push.

“However, we have to be cautious over these numbers. Brexit looms over us and it poses a very real threat to the prosperity of Scotland’s economy and commerce. I will not sit idly by while Scotland’s potential is thwarted by something we voted against".

She added: “It is vital that Scotland’s future is in Scotland’s hands. I want to see a prosperous independent country, with an international and cooperative outlook.

“Let’s reject the politics of isolation. Let’s keep Mid Fife, and Scotland, open for business.”