Culture Secretary Angus Robertson has faced fierce criticism after a damning independent review into Creative Scotland, the £90 million-a-year arts quango, found its leadership and delivery inadequate. The review, published on Tuesday, praised the organisation's goals but highlighted vague aims, inconsistent grant-making, and a lack of transparency in its leadership structure.
The report, which gathered input from 450 contributors, described Creative Scotland as 'too bureaucratic' with a tick-box mentality that neglected artistic talent. A recurring criticism was that funding increasingly prioritised engagement, accessibility, and sustainability over artistic merit. Despite committed staff, the body appeared 'distant and impersonal to many'.
Scottish Tory culture spokesman Murdo Fraser said: 'This damning report makes it clear Angus Robertson has once again been asleep at the wheel. Fresh from his failure to supervise Historic Environment Scotland, he has made no effort to get a grip with the growing crisis within Creative Scotland.' He added that after the scandal over funding an £85,000 hardcore sex film, any competent minister should have been closely monitoring the quango.
Scottish Liberal Democrat culture spokesman Neil Alexander said: 'Everyone who has to deal with Creative Scotland seems to have been messed around. The SNP Government has chopped and changed the culture budget, risking jobs and leaving people feeling betrayed.'
Review chair Angela Leitch stated: 'It is evident that there is a need for a strong national body for the arts, culture and creative sector. However, improvements are required to ensure that Creative Scotland can fully deliver all aspects of its remit.' The report also warned that the organisation's leadership must demonstrate greater ambition and recommended that the Scottish Government review how the culture portfolio functions within government.
Mr Robertson acknowledged the findings, saying: 'Change is needed to ensure Creative Scotland fulfils its potential to support our creative and cultural sectors. I will carefully consider the recommendations made for Scottish Government and will update parliament in due course.' A Creative Scotland spokeswoman said the organisation welcomed the report and would work with the Scottish Government to implement its recommendations.
