Meeting of the Parliament 18 September 2024
As I said, it is a matter of fact that the Scottish Government has increased culture sector funding this financial year by more than £15 million, which is the first step towards achieving the First Minister’s commitment to invest at least £100 million more annually in culture and the arts by 2028-29. The commitment to additional funding comes despite the challenging budget situation, and it signals the Scottish Government’s continued confidence in the culture sector and the value that we place on it.
The Scottish budget continues to face significant challenges, and no additional funding was confirmed in the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s recent statement. As is normal practice, any consequentials will be confirmed, in early 2025, as part of the supplementary estimates process. The Scottish Government will, of course, continue to work with the new UK Government to seek clarity on any changes that might have an impact on funding in Scotland.