HC Deb 24 November 1986 vol 106 c15
58. Mr. Patrick Thompson

asked the Minister for the Arts what representations he has received concerning Arts Council funding in the eastern area.

Mr. Luce

Several organisations and individuals have written to me.

Mr. Thompson

I welcome the 19.5 per cent. funding this year. Can my right hon. Friend tell me what the increase has been in real terms between the current year and 1978–79? Is he aware of growing concern about the diversion of funds from traditional areas such as orchestras, theatres and touring companies, for example, the Theatre Royal in Norwich, towards community arts? Does he share my concern at that diversion of funds?

Mr. Luce

I am grateful to my hon. Friend. I know of his interest in and support for the arts in the eastern area. Financial support for the arts in the eastern area has gone up in real terms by 132 per cent. between 1979–80 and 1986–87. The cash sums for the next year are not as yet allocated. I think my hon. Friend will agree that those figures are a real indication of the support that the Arts Council is giving through the regional arts association to the arts in his area. I am sure that my hon. Friend will ensure that is own views are known to the regional arts association. In the meantime, I am taking a close interest in the area and will make another visit there next week.