§ 26. Mr. Meadowcroftasked the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State answering in respect of the Arts what information he has as to assistance currently available to enable children to continue learning to play musical instruments after they leave school.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Environment (Mr. William Waldegrave)The Arts offer a wide range of amateur and professional 617 opportunities to enable children to continue learning to play musical instruments. Local education authorities provide courses at sixth-form colleges; and support is provided through the mandatory grant system for those taking degree-level courses at universities and polytechnics.
§ Mr. MeadowcroftI know from previous exchanges that the Minister is sympathetic towards my point. Is he aware that many good local authorities, including Leeds, assist young people at school by providing instruments, but that there is no provision after the young people leave school? The problem is shuffled back and forth between the Department of the Environment and the Department of Education and Science, on the ground that it is a leisure facility and an aspect of continuing education. Will the Minister take some responsibility for drawing the matter together and helping young people who wish to continue to learn to play an instrument after they leave school?
§ Mr. WaldegraveAs the hon. Gentleman recognises, this is a matter for either the Department of the Environment or the Department of Education and Science. The role of the Office of Arts and Libraries can only be that of a co-ordinator. However, I shall draw the hon. Gentleman's suggestion to the attention of my noble Friend.