Prime Minister Andy Burnham is under pressure to intervene and halt the Scottish National Party (SNP) government's plan to significantly expand its network of overseas offices, which critics have labeled "fake embassies." Lord George Foulkes, a former minister, is urging the Prime Minister and Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander to take a tougher stance on what he describes as "improper expenditure" by the Scottish government in areas reserved for the UK government.
The Scottish government intends to increase its international offices from the current nine to "more than 40" across 34 countries. This expansion comes despite pledges from First Minister John Swinney to reduce the size and scope of the public sector. Lord Foulkes expressed disappointment with the UK government's perceived inaction, stating that the SNP administration "never seem to learn" and exhibit "unbelievable arrogance."
He argued that the UK government holds constitutional and financial responsibility for the good governance of the entire United Kingdom and has the authority to direct the Scottish government to cease operations in reserved areas. Furthermore, Lord Foulkes suggested that financial powers could be used to ring-fence funding if the spending continues.
Currently, Scotland benefits from the extensive network of British embassies, high commissions, and consulates operated by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). These existing UK diplomatic missions assist British citizens abroad and promote trade. The Scottish government's existing nine international offices, including Scotland House in Brussels and London, employ 47 staff and cost £7.2 million annually. Additionally, Scottish Development International maintains approximately 20 offices globally.
The proposed expansion is detailed in the First Minister's Programme for Government, which simultaneously outlines plans for public sector cuts, including reforms to NHS boards and quangos. Critics, such as Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, have condemned the plan, calling it a "warped priority" that wastes taxpayer money on promoting independence rather than addressing domestic issues like the economy, education, and public services.
A spokesperson for the Scottish Government defended the international network, asserting that it attracts investment, supports exports, brings international students and talent to Scotland, and strengthens research partnerships. They claim the network has generated £2.46 billion in planned international sales, secured 108 inward investment projects in 2025, and attracted over 52,000 jobs through foreign direct investment in the last decade. The spokesperson also pointed to the estimated economic cost of Brexit to the UK taxpayer as a reason for Scotland's international offices to play a crucial role in securing jobs and investment.
Meanwhile, a UK government source criticized the SNP's plans, stating that Scotland already has access to the UK's diplomatic network of 282 missions in 180 countries. This network has reportedly helped secure vital shipbuilding orders and trade deals. The source emphasized that foreign policy is a reserved matter and accused the SNP of being "obsessed with independence" and "wasting public money abroad."