Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Eighth Report - Promoting Scotland Internationally
Scottish Affairs Committee
HC 625
Published 13 September 2023
Recommendations
3
Acknowledged
Para 28
UK Government's international strategy for Scotland lacks clear actions and measurable objectives.
Recommendation
We heard that UK Government activity in relation to promoting Scotland internationally, for example through ministerial visits, could sometimes be perceived as lacking a bigger strategic picture. The Secretary of State for Scotland described the UK Government’s strategy for Scotland …
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Government Response Summary
The government stated that promoting Scotland is a cross-government endeavor, with strategic direction arising from departmental priorities and collaboration. They described existing processes like stakeholder engagement, horizon scanning, and the Delivering for Scotland Board, but did not provide the specific 'further detail' or measurable actions requested for a comprehensive strategic picture.
Scotland Office
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Conclusions (4)
4
Conclusion
Acknowledged
Para 29
In response to this report, the Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland—in consultation with the FCDO—should provide a clear strategy containing its measurable priorities and objectives for promoting Scotland internationally alongside the actions it is undertaking—and will undertake in the future—to achieve these goals. This 30 Promoting Scotland …
Government Response Summary
The government provides a very vague statement about 'broad engagement providing ongoing opportunity' without committing to a clear strategy with measurable priorities, an audit, horizon scanning, stakeholder consultation, or specifying the remit of the cross-Whitehall delivery board.
5
Conclusion
Acknowledged
Para 30
The Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland earlier this year (2023) attended and took part in events as part of the 25th annual “Tartan Week” in New York City—the first time a UK Government Minister has attended since 2012.
Government Response Summary
The government confirmed the attendance of a minister at Tartan Week 2023, detailing the range of stakeholders engaged. They also mentioned ongoing discussions for 2024 collaboration and other international promotional activities tailored by overseas posts.
8
Conclusion
Acknowledged
Para 37
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.
10
Conclusion
Acknowledged
Para 46
We appreciate the wide range of work undertaken by UK embassies across a range of interests, from security to international development assistance to consular support. Our inquiry has focused on the economic and cultural promotion of Scotland internationally, and our recommendations will therefore focus on this narrower area of competence. …
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the committee's report on promoting Scotland internationally and expresses gratitude.