HC Deb 09 November 1998 vol 319 cc1-2
2. Mr. John Randall (Uxbridge)

What discussions he has had with Sadler's Wells over the impact of the decision to close the Royal Opera house. [57241]

The Minister for Arts (Mr. Alan Howarth)

I met representatives from Sadler's Wells, the Arts Council of England and the London Arts Board on 23 September. All parties agreed that Sadler's Wells should not suffer as a result of the Royal Opera house board's closure strategy.

Mr. Randall

I thank the Minister for his reply. Following those discussions, can he give any assurances on the long-term job security of the employees, especially the musicians and the artists of the Royal Ballet and Royal Opera house, given that they are the innocent victims of mismanagement and the gross ineptitude of his Department?

Mr. Howarth

No one disputes the artistic excellence of the ballet and opera at the Royal Opera house over the years, but it is widely acknowledged that the standard of management has not been what it should have been. The hon. Gentleman is right to say that primary responsibility for that must rest with the management, although some industrial practices have perhaps not been conducive to cost efficiencies.

The new board and the unions have addressed these issues realistically. I congratulate and thank them for that and I believe that the way is now open to secure the prospects of those who work at the Royal Opera house and create its artistic excellence. When it opens at the end of next year, the new house will be one of the most exciting and advanced venues for lyric theatre in the world, so we have much to look forward to.

Mr. Peter Ainsworth (East Surrey)

Will the Minister confirm that he has complete and unqualified confidence in the present chairman of the Royal Opera house?

Mr. Howarth

Certainly I do. Sir Colin Southgate and his colleagues on the new board have addressed their responsibilities seriously and realistically. I believe that the way is open to finding a resolution to the difficulties and that we can secure a future for world-class opera and ballet at Covent Garden.