In good shape

I was uneasy reading Paul Scott's view (Opinion, 17 February) that the fact one member of the selection panel for the chief executive of Creative Scotland was from England possibly resulted in an Englishman being appointed to the post. This assertion strikes me as being in danger of appearing to reflect the inferiority culture he bemoans.

Surely bringing a wide range of expertise to bear on any appointment process is sensible and shows confidence, as does appointing an excellent candidate with relevant experience, whatever their nationality. It is this fact that has enabled so many Scots to make careers outwith Scotland.

I also find his claim that "Scottish Arts Council staff are very largely recruited from England" strange. Not that it should be of any issue if people are experienced and effective, but to my knowledge the large majority of Arts Council staff are Scottish.

I certainly see little any inferiority complex reflected in today's vibrant, internationally renowned Scottish arts activity that embraces Scottish and non-Scottish cultural elements.

BARCLAY PRICE

Arts & Business Scotland

Abercromby Place, Edinburgh