Politics

Ipsos was commissioned by the Scottish Government to undertake this survey to examine the views and experiences of a representative sample of the Scottish population in relation to a spectrum of mental health-related issues.

The results from Ipsos Scotland's most recent Scottish Public Opinion Monitor have been released, providing an insight into the views of the public across a range of issues.

Sir Robert Worcester, Founder of MORI, analyses voting trends for the year to date.

Sir Robert Worcester comments on Ipsos's latest Economic Optimism Index

Ipsos's August 2009 Political Monitor, conducted 21-23 August, has the Conservatives up three points to 43% since July, and the Labour Party share up by two points to 24%, among those certain to vote.

Ipsos's monthly Issues Index shows that three in ten respondents (30%) are concerned about Unemployment, a five point increase on last month and the highest level of concern measured since December 1998. This comes after the release of ONS figures showing the number of unemployed at 2.435 million - the highest figure since 1995.

Newly released data from a June survey for the public sector trade union UNISON shows that the NHS remains a key election issue, despite the recession. Ninety-six per cent of the public say the NHS will be an important factor in deciding how they vote at the next general election. This compares to the economy (important for 93%), crime (92%), public services (85%), schools (85%) and Britain's relationship with Europe (70%).

The aim of the research was to provide an understanding of the nature and drivers of civil litigants' views and experiences of the Sheriff Courts in Scotland.

As has been the case since September 2008, the economy is the most important issue facing the country today according to the public. Over half (55%) place it amongst the most important issues, a similar percentage to the number who cited this issue last month (54%).

Indeed, the economy shows no sign of being knocked off the top spot - the second highest issue (race relations/immigration) is cited as an important issue by only half as many respondents (27%).