§ Mr. John Bowis (Battersea)I have pleasure in presenting a petition on the arts, signed by 76,000 men and women. I associate myself with the hon. Member for Newham, North-West (Mr. Banks) and the hon. Member for Orkney and Shetland (Mr. Wallace), who will present similar petitions. The petition shows that the arts in Britain have long been undervalued, and prays that
the House will bring forward urgent measures to improve the public practice, understanding and support of our theatres and orchestras, dance and opera companies, art centres and cinemas, museums and galleries, artists, writers and performers.
§ To lie upon the Table.
§ Mr. James Wallace (Orkney and Shetland)I wish to present a petition in similar terms to the one enunciated by the hon. Member for Battersea (Mr. Bowis). I n doing so, I indicate the cross-party support for the value of the arts in the quality of life in our society and say we wish the House to give proper support to the many and varied forms of art.
I beg leave to present the petition to the House.
§ To lie upon the Table.