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Confidence in Scottish Culture
Scotland's cultural scene would see positive benefit if Holyrood was given increased responsibilities, a discussion event at the Celtic Connections festival has been told.
Culture Minister Fiona Hyslop took the stage with journalist Ruth Wishart, former First Minister Henry McLeish and Radio Scotland's Iain Anderson, to discuss a range of cultural issues including the impact of culture on the political landscape.
Ms Hyslop said:
"Artists and creators often hold up a mirror to society, reflecting back the experience of belonging; nowhere more so than in Scotland, where our distinctive cultural life is known the world over.
"I firmly believe that a Scotland with more control over its own affairs - a Scotland more confident in itself - would see fresh creativity shine through as a result. In turn, a more confident nation leads to an even more creative one - a virtuous circle of increasing confidence and creativity.
"There is a hard edge to this, of course, as Scotland trades on the international recognition of its culture and heritage. It is a major attraction for visitors and showcases our country as a diverse and exciting place to live and work; so increased confidence and creativity can only be good for business.
"There is widespread agreement across the political spectrum that the Scottish Parliament's responsibilities are incomplete, and that Scotland needs additional powers before we can fully realise our potential. The Scottish Government's White Paper - Your Scotland, Your Voice - sets out the constitutional options and why we consider the case for independence to be the most compelling.
"It is for the people of Scotland to choose their own destiny, and that is why we will be bringing forward the Referendum Bill."
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