§ 27. Mr. Jesselasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations he has received concerning the Arts Council's current policies.
§ Mr. ChannonI have received a number of letters about the Arts Council's decision late last year to withdraw a number of grants.
§ Mr. JesselWhen my right hon. Friend sees the chairman of the Arts Council, will he bear in mind that there is some strength in the view that Arts Council grants should be concentrated on those companies that make the most effective use of them in enriching the lives of our people? Does my right hon. Friend accept that that cannot be achieved if, at the same time, it is said that those grants should be spread as widely as possible?
§ Mr. ChannonThat is the inevitable dilemma of the Arts Council. In principle, it must be right for the Arts 19 Council to be able to withdraw grants so that money can be given to companies that are coming up. Such companies can then be given a chance. I should like to talk to the Arts Council about the way in which things were done and about whether the decision was right.