Lib Dem MSP secures unanimous support for license to criticise

Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP Morven-May MacCallum has today secured unanimous support across parliament for her call to give charities a license to criticise.

Charities have previously spoken of their fears about funding being withdrawn if they publicly criticise decisions taken by SNP ministers.

A license to criticise refers to the legal right for charities to evaluate or question areas of public policy and the actions of the government.

The Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP amended a motion in a parliamentary debate to state that charities be given this license, securing unanimous support across the chamber.

Speaking after the amendment was passed, Morven-May MacCallum said:

“I am delighted that my amendment has passed today. This was a manifesto promise by my party, and we are delivering on it. It also sends a clear message to the Scottish Government to now cement this change into law.

“Charities have pointed to their fears of speaking out or even simply questioning the decisions taken by ministers, worried that if they do, funding will be cut off.

“Giving them a legal right to criticise would remove this fear and ensure they are able to speak truth to power- an essential and important function of any charitable organisation.

“I’m deeply grateful to the government and the other parties for supporting my amendment. I hope today will be the first step in making our democracy more constructive and healthier, ensuring that organisations with expertise and insight are empowered to help shape the actions of government.”