HC Deb 28 July 1980 vol 989 cc1041-2
28. Mr. Neubert

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will take further steps to support the provision of live orchestral music.

The Under-Secretary of State for Education and Science (Mr. Neil Macfarlane)

My responsibility in this field is to provide resources to the Arts Council, which allocated some £3.5 million in 1979–80 towards the direct support of orchestras. The council has the question of support for live orchestral music and the rest of the live arts under continuous review.

Mr. Neubert

Will my hon. Friend agree that the accommodation reached between the BBC and the Musicians' Union, under the inspiration of Lord Goodman, is good news for British music? But will he also make it plain on all occasions that there will need to be continuing support from all sources, whether from public bodies, private business or the listening audience, if live orchestral music is to survive the present recession without further losses?

Mr. Macfarlane

I echo the tribute paid by my hon. Friend to Lord Goodman. One can only hope that the proposed settlement of the musicians' strike will be approved by members of the Musicians' Union. I hope that the private sponsorship of orchestral live music, live art, which has occurred in recent months, will be continued. There are many good examples. My hon. Friend was right to highlight this important consideration.

Mr. Dalyell

What does "under continuous review" mean in this context? What practical help will the Government provide?

Mr. Macfarlane

. The increase in the Arts Council's grant has been steadily improved over the years. The Arts Council continuously reviews all the aspects that I listed. The Government, whilst maintaining an arm's length stance, acknowledge the important contribution of the Arts Council. There is a continuous review, as I said.