Hotel sector enjoys rise in revenues

Mr Rae cited the staging in Aberdeen of an expo for overseas job opportunities and the Young Coastal Scientist and Engineers Conference.

He noted the rise in revenue in Edinburgh had been achieved against a relatively weak March 2012 figure, but observed the Scottish capital had also benefited from Easter falling earlier this year and a “consequent surge in tourism”.

Mr Rae said: “The rise in occupancy in both Glasgow and Inverness, coupled with a fall in revenue, would indicate competitive pricing to maintain numbers. This is a common but short-term measure in the sector.”

He added: “The improvement in Edinburgh is welcome, given the relatively weak occupancy and revenue figures which the capital has experienced in r e c e nt months. It is clear the sector remains stretched, and that we are some way from experiencing a prolonged period of growth, but this improvement is very welcome.

“Whether these figures are simply a blip or mark a return to increased revenue and occupancy remains to be seen.” SAGA Home Insurance has reported grimly that more than three million over-50s still have adult children living at home with them “cramping their style”.

It does have the grace to admit many young adults have had it tough.

The offspring have finished university with debt, split from a partner, or are saving for a house.

But its coup de grace was surely: “The average age of these failed fledglings is 27.” Got that kids? You’re failures!