The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has given a breakdown of people living in the Stirling area by country of birth.

 Just 6.7% of the 90,247 people living in the local area were born outside of the UK (6,007).

• 606 from Africa
• 1,954 from the Middle East & Asia
• 745 from the Americas & the Caribbean
• 288 from Oceania & Antarctica
• 2,405 from Europe

 Stirling’s MP Alyn Smith has said the figures help celebrate Stirling’s diverse communities, but has warned that more needs to be done to encourage migration to Scotland.

 Commenting, he said:

 ‘Stirling proudly boasts a range of diverse communities, and these figures help to paint a picture as to where people have joined us from.‘

 ‘However, at just 6.7% of our local population, it’s important to note that this is lower than the UK average of 14%.‘

 ‘Indeed, in recent years, Scotland’s working age population has decreased in number, presenting new challenges in terms of funding public services and providing care for an ageing population. Inward migration is crucial to Stirling and Scotland in increasing that working population, which is why my SNP colleagues and I are calling for a different immigration policy for Scotland – one that helps to meet the economic needs of our country.‘