Brandon Malone

The ambassadors consist of 28 Scottish practitioners working mainly in arbitration from around the world.

At the centre’s reception at the offices of Laura Devine Solicitors in London on Monday evening, Brandon Malone announced the project and welcomed the ambassadors in attendance.

The ambassadors will assist the centre with promoting Scottish arbitration and Scotland globally as an attractive seat and venue for arbitration; raising awareness of the Scottish legal and justice system; and talking about the centre, ICCA Edinburgh and the associated opportunities with clients, colleagues and others.

Andrew Mackenzie, chief executive of the centre, said: “We are delighted to be involving advocates, barristers, engineers, solicitors and surveyors, based in Scotland, London, New York City, Dubai and Hong Kong. We look forward to working with the ambassadors to strengthen our message about Scottish arbitration and the benefits of Scotland as a seat.”

The Lord Advocate spoke on behalf of the Scottish government at the event, demonstrating further support from Scottish ministers. Mr Malone also spoke about the centre and ICCA Edinburgh.

He said: “We are here on the eve of London International Disputes Week. London is, of course, a leading venue for the resolution of international disputes, and I am sure that this will remain the case, whether or not the UK leaves the EU.

“What we say to our friends in London, is that if you can’t secure London as a seat for your arbitration, there is a very suitable neutral alternative, a short distance up the road in Edinburgh.

“What I say to our friends abroad, is that if for any reason you are not minded to seat your arbitration in London, remember that there is a cost-effective, civil law friendly, neutral alternative in Scotland.”