HC Deb 08 July 1965 vol 715 cc317-8W
Mr. Hugh Jenkins

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will give an assurance that Clauses 4 and 5 of his Circular 8/65 of 24th June to local authorities to encourage local authorities to assist amateurs are not meant to encourage local authorities to give this priority over assistance in the development of professional artistic work and especially in the development of professional theatres throughout the country.

Mr. Crosland

The purpose of Circular 8/65 was to advise local authorities generally about the various ways in which they can encourage the arts, including both professional and amateur theatrical companies among other forms of artistic enterprise. It is for local authorities to exercise their powers in the various ways open to them as they think fit.

Mr. Hugh Jenkins

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will now advise local authorities contemplating the construction of arts buildings to consult the Arts Council at an early stage, and, in the case of a theatre, to consult the Theatres Advisory Council as soon as the decision to build or to reconstruct is taken and before preliminary plans are prepared.

Mr. Crosland

My Department and the Ministry of Housing and Local Government recently issued a circular to local authorities drawing their attention to the White Paper entitled "A Policy for the Arts", and suggesting ways in which they can play their part in making a success of the policy. I see no need to advise local authorities about the importance of securing appropriate professional advice when preparing plans.