Jim Hume, Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP for South Scotland, has today spoken ahead of a Scottish Parliament debate on the National Museum of Costume at Shambellie House.

The MSP has been campaigning to stop the plans for closure and will take part in a debate this evening.

Commenting, Mr Hume said:

“To lose a museum of national importance would represent a serious blow to the region’s cultural activities which attracts 15,000 visitors each year. This could be severely damaging to this rural area’s local economy.

“At a time when Edinburgh’s National Museum has undergone a substantial investment programme, many people across Dumfries and Galloway will rightly be asking why Shambellie House is being put in jeopardy.

“Until a permanent solution has been found, I’m backing local calls for a twelve month period of grace. Closure must not be an option.”