Scotland’s labour market lost momentum in May, according to the latest Bank of Scotland Labour Market Barometer.

The Barometer fell from 54.3 to 52.3. However the index remained above the 50.0 no-change threshold.

Scottish recruiters reported another rise in the number of candidates placed in permanent job roles during May along with a strong monthly rise in temporary appointments across the Scottish labour market.

The number of long-term job roles rose for the sixth month in a row during May, while the temporary sector saw strongest improvement in demand for staff since May 2008.

The number of candidates seeking permanent employment in the Scottish labour market increased for the 26th consecutive month during May along with a marked rise in the number of candidates seeking temporary job roles. The pace of candidate growth also accelerated markedly since April to its sharpest since October 2009.