Scots, with a far stronger demographic power-base than Gaelic, is nonetheless in a more disadvantaged state socially and politically.
The recently established Scottish Executive has at least recognised that it has some responsibility towards Gaelic, though the measures it has so far taken in support of it have fallen short of many people's hopes; but despite strong pressure from concerned bodies, virtually no action has been taken in support of Scots. My paper will address the following issues:
1. What are the claims of Scots?
2. What has been done in support of them?
3. What still remains to be done?
4. Why, after decades of activity in the scholarly, literary and political fields, has so little been achieved in the social, educational and political spheres?