The scale of the UK Government’s activities is set out in a submission to the Scottish Affairs Committee by the Scottish, Foreign and International Trade Ministers.
This support includes one of the world’s largest diplomatic networks promoting Scotland’s interests in foreign policy, security, defence, international trade, investment, culture, education and the arts, as well as essential consular assistance.
Foreign Secretary James Cleverley said:
Across our network of 282 missions in 180 countries and territories, British diplomats represent the interests of the whole of the United Kingdom, generating trade and investment and proudly promoting Scotland’s rich culture and heritage.
The UK’s permanent membership of the UN Security Council and our leadership in NATO, the G7, the G20 and other global organizations enable us to push the agenda on vital issues that matter to everyone in the UK, including Ukraine, climate change and human rights.
FCDO’s combined headquarters in East Kilbride has almost 1,000 staff who are at the heart of shaping and delivering the UK’s foreign policy as a force for good in the world.
Scottish Secretary Alistair Jack said:
The UK Government acts on behalf of the whole country, representing the interests of all parts of the United Kingdom around the world. Scotland benefits greatly from the scale of our international engagement.
International relations and the development, protection and regulation of international trade are reserved matters. The UK Government takes seriously its duty and responsibility to represent Scotland abroad.
The UK Government works around the world to promote and protect Scotland’s economic interests, including securing overseas investment and helping Scottish businesses expand their export markets.
And of course, the people of Scotland benefit from and contribute to the UK’s leading international voice on the world stage, including through membership of international organizations such as NATO.
Trade Policy Minister Greg Hands said:
The Department for International Trade works tirelessly to promote Scotland’s economic interests. Our global footprint offers Scottish businesses access to support and opportunities around the world and enables us to market Scotland as a destination for overseas investment.
And through free trade agreements we open up international markets for Scottish goods and services.
We will continue these efforts and will work closely with Scottish International Development and the Scottish Government to promote Scotland’s interests abroad.
The UK Government’s submission was made in response to a request by the Scottish Affairs Committee for evidence to its inquiry into promoting Scotland internationally. The UK Government’s presentation is available here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-report-shows-scale-of-uk-government-promotion-of-scotland-abroad
