§ Mr. BowisTo ask the Minister for the Arts what representations he has received concerning Mr. Ewen Balfour; and if he will make a statement on the public accountability of the Royal Opera house, Covent Garden in respect of matters for which he is responsible.
§ Mr. RentonI have received one letter about Mr. Balfour from a member of the public as well as a copy of my hon. Friend's letter to Lord Sainsbury, chairman of the Royal Opera house. The Royal Opera house is a revenue client of the Arts Council and is therefore directly accountable to the Arts Council on matters relating to its artistic and financial performance. The council is, in turn, accountable to me for the efficient administration of its grant in aid. Grant allocations to individuals clients is a matter for the Arts Council.