The Royal and Ancient Golf Club defended its intake of women members a year after ending its men-only rule.
On September 18 last year, the same day Scotland voted to reject independence, the 260-year-old club voted 85% in favour of allowing women into its clubhouse.
However, so far only 13 females are included in its 2,400-strong membership.
A spokesman for the R&A in St Andrews said: “We were delighted to begin welcoming women as members of the club and are continuing to do so.
“It was undoubtedly the right decision for the club and was supported by the overwhelming majority of members.”
Of the women who have joined the club, seven were accepted as honorary members.
Among them was Ladies Professional Golf Association founder Louise Suggs, who has since passed away.
It is understood the R&A is planning to fast track a total of 15 female members, in addition to honorary members.
But Claire Baker MSP said: “While the R&A’s decision last year to introduce women members was welcome, their rate of progress is disappointing and does call into question their commitment to it.
“In this day and age the decision was a long time overdue. As golf’s governing body, it is important the R&A show their commitment to equal opportunities and set the right example.”