The Scottish Government (SG) has published its ‘Response and Analysis Paper’ on the consultation on the SG’s Historic Environment Strategy (HES) for Scotland and the Merger of Historic Scotland and the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS).
The report concludes (1.44-1.47) as follows: ‘There appears to be relatively broad support for the general principles underpinning the strategy as outlined in the consultation document. However, there is a recurring challenge evident from many comments at different questions throughout the consultation. On one hand there is criticism that the Strategy is over complex and lengthy; on the other hand there is criticism that it lacks detail or that there are omissions.
Many respondents offered assistance and input going forward and there appears to be demand for regular and ongoing contact with stakeholders in finalising and implementing the strategy.
A similar pattern is evident regarding the merger with fairly broad support for the values and functions set out for the new organisation. However, respondents commented on a perceived vagueness relating to outcomes and how and when outcomes will be achieved and measured. Once again, offers of help and input were made by many respondents.
There was a recurring concern expressed regarding potential conflicts of interest for the new organisation in relation to grant giving and regulation and this is highlighted as an area requiring further consideration.’
Hannah Eamer, Policy Review Manager, at the SG’s Historic Environment Policy Unit writes of the current and future programme:
‘The final Strategy is due for publication in early 2014, to coincide with the proposed entry of the Merger Bill into the Parliamentary process….
You may also be interested to note that on 10 September 2013 the Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop, led a debate in the Scottish Parliament titled: ‘Scotland’s historic environment – the way forward.’ The full text of the debate is available as part of the meeting of the Parliament report on the Scottish Parliament website and there is a video available on the BBC Democracy Live website.
Please forward this to any other organisations, businesses or individuals that may be interested and consider publicising the consultation paper and Scottish Governments response on your organisation’s website or through existing communication channels.
See links at: LINK
See the responses at: LINK
For more background see: LINK
For the report on HE funding in Scotland see: LINK
Scottish Government publications: LINK
