National Galleries Scotland to keep Baillie Gifford as sponsor amid fossil fuel row

A Scottish cultural organisation has confirmed its decision to keep Baillie Gifford as a main sponsor amid criticism regarding the companies ethics.

National Galleries of Scotland confirmed that they would be keeping the Scotland based firm on as a main sponsor despite calls to cut ties.

In a statement shared to their website the organisation said that while there are many “differing views” they are confident that the funding from Baillie Gifford meets their “strong ethical standards”.

The cultural organisation, which runs three galleries across Edinburgh including National, Modern and Portrait, sees millions of visitors every year.

The decision comes after a number of events and companies cut ties with the Scotland-based firm which has been accused of investing in “companies who make money from fossil fuels”.

The Edinburgh International Book Festival notably ended its 20-year partnership with the sponsors just ten weeks before it was set to begin.

At last year’s event, activists and authors staged a walkout in protest against the firm, with social activist Greta Thunberg cancelling her appearance at the festival due to its links with Baillie Gifford.

The Borders Literary Festival in Melrose, and The Wigtown Book Festival, also announced they would no longer be sponsored by the firm earlier this year.

A spokesperson for the National Galleries Scotland said: “After a lot of thought and consideration, the National Galleries of Scotland plans to continue our relationship with Baillie Gifford.

“We understand that this is a complex issue, and there are many differing views, but we are confident that the funding we receive from Baillie Gifford meets our strong ethical standards.

“As a cultural organisation the National Galleries of Scotland offers a space for artists to share experiences and perspectives with others, encouraging discussion and understanding of the world we live in.

“This is one of the main ways we can positively impact society, but it needs to be funded.

“We deliver a world-class programme of exhibitions, events, engagement and outreach which just wouldn’t be possible without support from partners like Baillie Gifford.”

Baillie Gifford has been contacted for comment.