Increase in East Ren population

For the first time, experts at the National Records of Scotland (NRS), which compiled the statistics, have analysed the number of European Economic Area (EEA) – born residents living in Scotland by local authority area.

Latest figures reveal that the past decade has seen a big jump in the number of residents, largely driven by inward migration.

The NRS report shows that last year 4,076 people came into East Renfrewshire and 3,257 went out.

Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs, said: “These figures underline the key role migration has to play in our work to grow Scotland’s population.

“It is very welcome that people are living longer but we need to ensure we can grow our working age population to support our economy and society now and in the future, when we expect more people to live longer beyond retirement.”

She continued: “Scotland already benefits significantly from the contribution made by people from across Europe who have chosen to live, work and study here, bringing new skills and expertise and helping to underpin future economic growth.”

“The Scottish Government is committed to continuing to encourage inward migration to support further population growth.”