Scottish Government urged not to ruin nation’s literary health

open letter: 111 authors and poets speak out in fear of ‘devastating cuts’

It was a plot twist delivered with the craft and precision that might be expected of Scotland’s great writers.

And unlike most of the shots fired daily across the Scottish Government’s bows, this one will not be simply brushed off.

A stinging open letter sent by 111 of the country’s most distinguished authors and poets yesterday warned “devastating cuts” could mean Scotland’s great literary tradition is entering its final chapter.

Signatories included some of Scotland’s most celebrated literary figures – and far from the usual suspects when it comes to criticising Scottish Government policy.

In fact, many of the 111 – not least the nation’s leading historian Sir Tom Devine, former national poet Liz Lochhead, Trainspotting author Irvine Welsh, best-selling crime writer Val McDermid, playwright Alan Bissett and musician-turned-activist Pat Kane – have been prominent supporters of Scottish independence.

Others, meanwhile, regularly interact on social media with Nicola Sturgeon and her colleagues, including Inspector Rebus author Ian Rankin.

It comes the week before Finance Secretary Derek Mackay delivers the Scottish budget.

The letter states: “The Scottish Government is preparing a budget which will have major consequences for the future health of the nation.

“All the signs suggest that culture in general could face devastating cuts.

“We are calling for the government to increase funding for the arts and literature, for the good of everyone in Scotland.”

Last night, a Scottish Government spokeswoman said: “We are committed to supporting and protecting Scotland’s culture and historic environment, to ensure our diverse and evolving culture scene and rich heritage continues to thrive.”

Picture: Kim Cessford. Ian Rankin is one of the signatories.