Fife MSP warns of growing ‘culture gap’ between rich and poor

Betteroff people more likely to take part in cultural activities

A Fife MSP has called for action to ensure everyone has equal access to cultural activities.

Claire Baker said there was a growing “culture gap” between the richest and poorest in Scotland.

Analysis of the 2016 Scottish Household Survey shows 66% of those who are least well-off participate in cultural activity, compared to 88% of the most well-off.

Mrs Baker said cuts to local authorities, estimated to reach £700 million by the end of the current parliament according to one report, will worsen the situation.

The Mid Scotland and Fife MSP said: “These figures show that austerity and inequality isn’t just about the money in your pocket, it’s about the quality of life people can have.

“Cultural activity enriches our lives, be it through reading, visiting a museum or seeing a live performance.

“The figures reveal the huge gap that exists in almost every aspect of life between the richest and poorest in society.

“A further effective cut of £700m to local authorities will just make this worse.”

Reading for pleasure was by far the most common cultural activity in 2016, followed by doing creative work on a computer then by crafts and dance.

Mrs Baker added: “It is clear that radical action is needed to address the gap between the wealthiest and the poorest – not just financially but right across society.

“The only party that can be trusted to close the gap between the privileged few and the many is Labour.”

The Scottish Government said its draft budget included a 10% increase in culture spend – to £166.8m next year.

A spokeswoman for the government said: “This will support key initiatives and help Scotland’s cultural sector to thrive.

“The Scottish Government is clear – background should never be a barrier to participating in culture.

“That is why we are committed to protecting free entry to national museums and galleries.

“It’s also why we support projects like Cashback for Creativity, ensuring thousands of young people in deprived areas have the chance to engage in cultural activities, and Sistema Scotland, helping to improve the lives of the children and young people in Raploch, Govanhill and Torry.

“We are currently developing A Culture Strategy for Scotland.

“This will set out a vision and priorities for the future development of culture – including maximising participation regardless of background.” arobertson@thecourier.co.uk

These figures show that austerity and inequality isn’t just about the money in your pocket, it’s about the quality of life people can have. CLAIRE BAKER MSP

Picture: Getty Images. A cultural strategy is being developed to bridge the gap between rich and poor.