Today is St Andrew’s day, Scotland’s national day. By this time next year a referendum will have taken place on whether Scotland should become independent. The UK Government firmly believes that it is for people in Scotland to decide their own future through democratic debate and a referendum in September 2014. This is a good example of democracy in action and one which we are proud of. None of this is to say, though, that the UK Government is neutral on the question of independence. The UK Government firmly believes that Scotland is stronger as part of the UK, and that the UK is stronger with Scotland in it.
Whatever Scots think about the politics and economics we all take great pride in the history of our country, its amazing natural beauty, and the strength and character of its people.
On this day every year, Scots men and women around the world will take time to enjoy and relive pastimes rooted in the historical customs of Scotland, such as writing poems, Scottish dancing, and, for some, possibly even bagpipe playing – although as I career diplomat I will leave that last one to the professionals for the benefit of UK/Sweden bilateral relations!
In 2014, Scotland celebrates its “Year of Homecoming”, a year-long programme of events.
For foodies, there will be first-ever “Gastrofest!” that will explore the science of Scottish food and drink and provide a fantastic excuse to enjoy all its wonderfully fresh natural local ingredients. And May has been designated Whisky Month, so if you prefer your liquids to be distilled for a little longer then you know when to go!
For artistic readers, the Creative Mackintosh Festival 2014 will offer a great range of visual art and performances as well as exhibitions, music and dance for people of all ages. This year the event will take place in, and showcase, the unique architecture to be found in the many buildings in Glasgow, where I spent 4 happy years as a student, designed by the creative genius of Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
Occasionally, Scots are given the mistaken reputation of being a little dour. We Scots are determined to prove that perception wrong once and for all and there are no better examples to achieve that than the world-famous Edinburgh Arts Festival every August, and the Glasgow International Comedy Festival in November, which is the largest event of its kind in Europe and last time covered 411 shows at 46 venues!
And to finish with a sporting flourish, Glasgow will host the Commonwealth Games next July/August, and the Ryder Cup golf championships will be at the world-famous Gleneagles Resort in September. So there really is something for everyone in Scotland in 2014.