Baillie Gifford Ends Sponsorships of UK Literary Festivals

Investment firm withdraws support amid protests over fossil fuel and Israel links, impacting major events.

Wigtown Book Festival is the latest to lose Baillie Gifford sponsorship after 14 years of support.
The move follows similar withdrawals from Edinburgh, Hay, Cheltenham, and Borders festivals.
Campaign group Fossil Free Books pressured festivals to cut ties due to Baillie Gifford's investments.
Baillie Gifford defends its investment record, calling claims about fossil fuels and Israel misleading.
The decision raises concerns about the financial future of UK literary festivals and access to cultural events.