To ask the Scottish Government what plans it has to support cultural activities in the Cowdenbeath constituency. (S6O-03512)

The Scottish Government supports a range of cultural activities in communities across Scotland. We provide targeted support for culture through our funding of local authorities and public bodies, including Creative Scotland. Our funding for the youth music initiative has supported projects in Cowdenbeath that offer meaningful music-making opportunities to young people, helping to build their confidence and enhance their attainment. Projects that have been supported include Charanga, which is a digital resource that supports class teachers to deliver progressive music programmes, and Fischy Music, which helps pupils to develop their own music around a curricular topic.

Although the various projects that the cabinet secretary has referenced are welcome, it would nonetheless be fair to say that local groups would welcome greater support than they have had to date.

Looking to the immediate future, with many community events planned to mark the 40th anniversary of the miners strike, including in Ballingry on Saturday 15 June, what specific support does the Scottish Government intend to offer?

The Scottish Government recognises the significant impact that the miners strike continues to have in communities throughout Scotland. That is why we introduced legislation to provide a pardon to miners and other participants in the strike. We continue to call on the United Kingdom Government to undertake a full UK-wide public inquiry into the strike.

I appreciate that Ms Ewing wrote to the former Deputy First Minister about the anniversary event that is taking place in Ballingry in June. My colleague Tom Arthur, the Minister for Employment and Investment, has confirmed that he will be in attendance.