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Motion · S6M-17218 · 15 Apr 2025

The Passing of Paddy Higson the Mother of Scottish Film

Lodged by Annie Wells Standard Motion 32 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament notes with deep sadness the passing of Paddy Higson OBE, at the age of 83, from cancer; recognises her outstanding and pioneering contribution to Scotland’s film and television industry over several decades; acknowledges that she was widely regarded as a selfless champion of talent and was affectionately known as the “mother" of Scotland's film industry; pays tribute to her influential role as a producer on iconic films, such as Gregory’s Girl and Restless Natives, and her acclaimed work on The Magdalene Sisters and Orphans, as well as her contributions to landmark Scottish television, including Taggart, Monarch of the Glen and Cardiac Arrest; celebrates her leadership of the Glasgow Media Access Centre, where she worked tirelessly to widen access to the industry, support underrepresented voices and mentor new generations of filmmakers, particularly in Glasgow; notes that her remarkable achievements were recognised with a BAFTA Scotland Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Industry in 2018, her appointment as an OBE in the 2023 King’s New Year Honours List for services both to film and television and to diversity and inclusion and her award of an Honorary Doctorate of Drama from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland; acknowledges the tributes paid from across the industry, including those describing her as a “trailblazing icon” and “kind, generous, supportive and selfless”, and extends its sincere condolences to all who knew her and to the those in Scotland's screen community who are mourning her passing while celebrating her extraordinary legacy.

Supporters (32)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.