Creative Scotland (Meetings)

Portfolio Question Time – in the Scottish Parliament am ar 26 Mehefin 2024.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Angus Robertson Angus Robertson Scottish National Party

As part of normal management relations with directly funded public bodies, Scottish Government officials regularly meet Creative Scotland, with the latest meeting having taken place on 18 June. I last met Creative Scotland on 22 May, and my next meeting is scheduled for next Monday.

Photo of Sarah Boyack Sarah Boyack Llafur

At that meeting, will the cabinet secretary be able to promise to add to Creative Scotland’s budget any of the additional £100 million that was promised by the First Minister, given the arts industry’s fears that the funding environment is extremely precarious, which could lead to devastating decisions for arts groups unless there is enough money when Creative Scotland makes its funding decisions in October?

Photo of Angus Robertson Angus Robertson Scottish National Party

Sarah Boyack is aware of the normal Scottish Government funding procedures that take place in the Parliament. The Government has already committed to a £15.8 million uplift in this financial year and to providing an additional £25 million next year. Discussions with Creative Scotland and the rest of the sector about additional financial support will continue.

I would be delighted to have the support of other political parties for the £100 million uplift in culture funding. That stands in contrast with the decline in funding in England under the United Kingdom Conservative Party and the cut to funding for culture and the arts in Wales by the Labour Party.

Photo of Jeremy Balfour Jeremy Balfour Ceidwadwyr

At his meeting with Creative Scotland next Monday, could the cabinet secretary raise the issue of funding for projects for people with disabilities? There is still concern in the disability community that the appropriate methodology is not being used. Will he report back to the Parliament on his conversations with Creative Scotland on that issue?

Photo of Angus Robertson Angus Robertson Scottish National Party

I am happy to give Mr Balfour that undertaking. The timing of his question is very good—if he wishes to get in touch with me before Monday, I will be happy to raise that issue. I am aware that services that are provided by the likes of Euan’s Guide are very helpful for people with disabilities in allowing them to better understand which facilities are accessible. I give Mr Balfour a commitment that, if he gets in touch with me before Monday, I will raise the issue that he has raised in the Parliament today.