The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland has been involved in advocacy since its formation in the 18th century, and has made its views known on a range of issues pertinent to the Society’s aims.

In the very first volume of the Transactions of the Society in 1792 there is a plea by Mr John Williams for the creation of a Royal Forest of Oak in Scotland, a plea to which “the ferocious attention of the Society and of the public” was called by a supportive Baronet Sir Alexander Dick of Prestonfield.  The Society continues to direct its attention to matters of relevance to the historic environment of Scotland, although with varying levels of ferocity as required for each issue!

The Society promotes the research, understanding and conservation of the historic environment of Scotland – for the benefit of all – and advocates good practice. We respond to Government and other relevant consultations, produce position statements and chair seminars and meetings to discuss pertinent issues.

We are particularly keen to emphasise transparency and encourage efficiency across the sector.

Please email the director@socantscot.org for more information, or to highlight issues you think the Society might be interested in.  Focused on the national picture, the Society tends not to get involved in site-specific advocacy – unless it can be seen as an example or symptom of a broader strategic issue.

Where the Society receives or sends correspondence, such as a public consultation response or advocacy paper, considered to be of significant interest we publish it on our website. However, any communications considered offensive, libellous or grossly inaccurate will not be placed online.

Please email the director@socantscot.org for more information, or to highlight issues you think the Society might be interested in.