HC Deb 22 October 1984 vol 65 cc433-4
29. Mr. Tony Banks

asked the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State answering in respect of the Arts what representations he has received regarding the future of the Riverside Studios.

Mr. Waldegrave

My right hon. and noble Friend received a few letters in the consultation period following the publication of the Government's proposals for the GLC. None have been received recently.

Mr. Banks

Is the Minister aware that the GLC funds the Riverside Studios to the extent of £420,000 a year and the Arts Council to the extent of £100,000 a year, and that the Riverside Studios has received a letter stating that, in the event of the abolition of the GLC, Hammersmith borough council will not replace the GLC money? Does he realise that that will be repeated across London, as borough after borough that has been rate-capped refuses to, or cannot, subsidise the theatres in London that are currently subsidised by the GLC, thus making nonsense of his proposals for the arts in London?

Mr. Waldegrave

Of course I am aware of those facts, as, more importantly, is the Arts Council. I know that the hon. Gentleman has little shame, but in view of the vandalism that the GLC has just perpetrated on the Hayward gallery, I thought that we should have heard less from him for the time being.

Mr. Buchan

That is a highly inadequate answer. The truth is that throughout the Greater London area arts activities—music, theatre and dance—are under threat because of the monstrous proposals of the Government who, out of political pique, are trying to wipe out the artistic efforts of this city. Will the Minister reconsider the matter and withdraw the proposals?

Mr. Waldegrave

I agree that on this occasion the hon. Member for Newham, North-West (Mr. Banks) needed the protection of his Front Bench spokesman, although it is unusual to find them on the same side at all. The Government have made available funds to overcome the difficulties for the arts, which are well recognised, and the Arts Council is aware of the problem of the Riverside Studios.