Arts Sector (Talent Retention)

Portfolio Question Time – in the Scottish Parliament at on 26 June 2024.

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Photo of Graham Simpson Graham Simpson Conservative

To ask the Scottish Government how it prevents a loss of talent when considering any reduction in funding to the arts sector. (S6O-03625)

Photo of Angus Robertson Angus Robertson Scottish National Party

The Scottish Government is not considering any reduction in funding to the arts sector. The First Minister has reaffirmed the commitment to growing investment in culture and screen by £100 million over the coming years. We want to ensure that people who are motivated to realise their aspirations of a career in the creative sector are supported to do so. A wide range of support is already in place and being delivered by our agencies, including Creative Scotland, Screen Scotland and the enterprise agencies.

Photo of Graham Simpson Graham Simpson Conservative

I thank the cabinet secretary for that answer, but I wonder what he would say to the director of Culture Counts, Lori Anderson, who wrote to the First Minister:

“Large-scale contraction will have a systemic effect that can’t be predicted or easily undone. Our artists, performers and freelancers are vulnerable, and some are choosing to leave the sector seeking more stability. Our reputation and ambitions as an international cultural leader are now at serious risk.”

What is his response to that?

Photo of Angus Robertson Angus Robertson Scottish National Party

I have regular discussions with Culture Counts and other cultural organisations about plans to increase funding for culture in Scotland. There are areas of the sector that should be hugely exciting for young people who want to begin a career in the arts. I point the member to the boom in the screen sector, which we are very supportive of.

I give him the commitment that we have no plans to reduce culture spending. We are planning to increase culture spending, and we are doing so; that is in contrast to the Conservative Party, which is cutting it in England.