More should be done to promote Scotland globally, but positive signs of collaboration between governments, MPs find

A report found the two administrations had shared interests

More should be done to promote Scotland globally, but there are positive signs of collaboration between governments, MPs have found.

A report by the Scottish affairs committee found evidence the UK and Scottish governments often collaborate well when promoting Scotland’s interests abroad, but more work is needed to highlight modern Scottish successes in sectors such as science and space.

In Promoting Scotland Internationally, a new report published today, MPs found more traditional Scottish associations such as tartan, whisky and golf act as useful hooks to create interest, but called for the UK Government to do more to boost its international profile.

The report found the two administrations were working well together to promote Scotland.

SNP MP Pete Wishart, chair of the Scottish affairs committee, said: “Where a lot of the international promotion of Scotland can at times seems to be characterised by tension and relationship difficulties between the UK and Scottish governments, we found that the work on the ground is largely collaborative and constructive with a focus on serving vital Scottish interests.

“It’s critical the international view of Scotland keeps pace with the world-leading industries, which set us apart. As a committee, we really want to see more promotion of Scotland’s contemporary strengths – for example, its outstanding science and space sectors – with a clear strategy which sets out how we will use our national days to build Scotland’s reputation.

“While visiting the USA, we found there was a huge amount of potential and, with a clearer direction from the UK Government as well as ongoing collaboration with their Scottish Government counterparts, Scotland’s standing in the world can certainly continue to grow.”

Recommendations included the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office enhance training for UK embassy staff on Scottish trade and industry priorities, and more embassies holding events to celebrate national days on St Andrew’s Day and Burns’ Night to highlight Scottish strengths.

Pamela Nash, chief executive of Scotland in Union, said: “This is a very encouraging report, and one which will be welcomed by people and businesses alike.

“There’s no question that Scotland’s interests are best served by both of our governments working with and not against each other. When this happens, we can successfully promote Scotland to the world and boost our economy here at home".