§ 50. Mr. PatnickTo ask the Minister for the Arts how he is encouraging touring companies involved in the performing arts in 1988–89.
§ Mr. LuceI announced a three-year programme of expenditre for the Arts Council last November, which included funds to strengthen touring in Great Britain. I understand that the council will allocate an additional £1.5 million for this purpose in 1988–89.
In addition, I warmly welcome the council's new touring initiative "Upstart". It represents a partnership between the public and private sectors which will enable productions to be taken first to the regions and then to London, bringing drama of the highest quality to the widest possible audience.