Scottish government calls on St. Andrews, Muirfield to allow women

• By Will Gray
• Aug 24, 2012 11:17 AM ET

On the heels of Augusta National's historic decision to invite women as members for the first time, the Scottish government used the opportunity to single out two of its most famed links to follow suit.

Shona Robison, SMP and Minister for Commonwealth Games and Sport, called upon the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews (R&A) and Muirfield Golf Club to allow female members, according to The Star.

Following a statement to announce that Blairgowrie Golf Club in Scotland will host the 2014 Junior Ryder Cup, Robison turned her attention to the issue of club membership.

"The First Minister is on record in saying that all clubs should be open to women members, but there is nothing we can do to force them," said Robison. "However, the direction of travel now is clearly to admit both men and women members and hopefully we will see an end to not allowing women to become members."

On Monday, Augusta National opened its membership to women for the first time in its 80-year history, inviting former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and businesswoman Darla Moore as members.

Often termed the "home of golf," St. Andrews last hosted the Open Championship in 2010; Muirfield GC is slated to host the event next summer for the first time since 2002.