Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 8
8
Acknowledged
Paragraph: 37
Opportunities exist to engage Scotland's global diaspora for promoting Scottish interests internationally.
Conclusion
We have heard from witnesses during our inquiry of the opportunities which exist for the UK and Scottish governments to build connections with Scotland’s large global diaspora, which could be used to support the promotion of Scottish interests internationally.
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the opportunities to engage the Scottish diaspora, highlighting existing activities by UK overseas missions such as St Andrew's Day and Burns Night events. It states the FCDO will continue to work collaboratively with the Scottish Government to engage the diaspora.
Paragraph Reference:
37
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
As noted above, the UK’s overseas network marks St Andrew’s Day and Burns Night to celebrate Scottish culture and host suppers, often in collaboration with diaspora groups. Our diplomats overseas play an active role in engaging Scottish expatriate communities and organisations during these events. For example, in Australia where there is an active Highland Games tradition, the UK’s Consul General in Melbourne is also Chieftain of the Highland Games, and regularly attends events to promote Scotland. This year, Burns Night events were held by UK missions across the globe including in Bangkok, Boston, Buenos Aires, Copenhagen, Kuala Lumpur, South Sudan and Wellington. The British High Commission in Accra hosted the centenary Burns Supper of the Caledonian Society of Ghana earlier this year, and UK Government staff at the British Embassy Manila celebrated Burns Night with the St Andrew’s Society and alumni from Scottish universities. The FCDO remains fully committed to working collaboratively with the Scottish Government in the delivery of devolved policy objectives. This includes discussing how both governments can work together to further engage the Scottish diaspora. Overseas Posts will continue to build and develop connections with Scottish diaspora groups in the most effective way, taking into account the local context and environment.