The latest Bank of Scotland Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) shows that there was a “tentative upturn” in Scottish private-sector growth in April, but business confidence fell to a six-month low.

The index rose to 50.6 from March’s four-month low of 50.1 (a figure above 50 indicates growth). The Bank of Scotland PMI is produced by IHS Markit and features survey data collected from around 500 companies operating in the manufacturing and service sectors.

The PMI report also says that there are “fresh concerns over inflation, with input cost pressures on businesses accelerating last month, leading to a marked rise in charges.”

It went on to say: “Overall, the private sector — accounting for about half of Scotland’s economy — made a positive start to the second quarter, seeing growth pick up slightly from the relative stagnation.” There are also “rising raw-material costs and wage pressures”.

Fraser Sime, regional director at Bank of Scotland commercial banking, said: “April’s PMI signalled a tentative upturn in Scottish private-sector growth, with both output and employment increasing at faster rates.

“The latest survey’s results were driven by a strong manufacturing sector, which moved up a gear in April. There was good news all round — from steep production growth to solid job creation and a further easing of cost pressures.

“A faster rise in new orders bodes well, although continued growth in the second quarter remains heavily dependent on the relatively stronger manufacturing sector.”