The Scottish Government has been accused of risking the sporting legacy of a major summer of events after its latest budget failed to deliver a promised funding boost. Former athlete and Scottish Conservative MSP Brian Whittle issued the warning, stating ministers are in danger of squandering a golden opportunity.
Budget Announcement Falls Short of SNP Pledge
In Tuesday's budget, Finance Secretary Shona Robison announced a £40 million increase in funding for sport. However, this stops well short of the £100 million the SNP had previously pledged to invest. The details of how the money will be distributed to Scotland's various sports governing bodies (SGBs) and the exact timeline for dispersal remain unclear.
Brian Whittle was direct in his criticism. "This increased funding falls far short of what the SNP has pledged to do," he said. He emphasised the wider benefits of investment, noting "sport plays a crucial role in keeping people healthy and investing in this sector will have positive knock-on effects for our NHS in particular."
Sporting Leaders Seek Long-Term Commitment
Reaction from within the sports sector has been cautious. While welcoming the uplift, leaders have stressed the need for a sustainable, long-term financial plan to address a growing crisis. Doc McKelvey, CEO of Scottish Gymnastics and chair of the Scottish Governing Body CEO Forum, told Daily Mail Sport it was "good to see an uplift, given we have been running on empty for years."
However, he warned it was "still short of what would make a real difference" and called for a commitment to further spending in coming years to allow for proper planning. John Lunn, CEO of Scottish Swimming, welcomed the roll-out of free swimming lessons but urged the government to work towards a "sustainable commitment" for the programme's future.
Legacy at Stake Ahead of Major Events
The warning comes at a critical time for Scottish sport, with the country preparing to host the Commonwealth Games and support the men's football team at the World Cup this summer. Whittle argued that SNP ministers "must not squander the chance to deliver a proper legacy" from these events.
Part of the £40m package includes an £18 million uplift for the national agency sportscotland. The government stated the investment aims to provide "a range of sports and activities for more children" and universal free swimming lessons, aiming to "give more kids a sporting chance." Yet, without the full promised funding and a clear long-term strategy, concerns persist that the potential benefits of a huge sporting summer will not be fully realised across Scotland.
