§ Sir Thomas ArnoldTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what recent information he has about the Arts Council's policy towards funding the leading London orchestras; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BrookeHaving undertaken a review of its support for the London orchestras, the Arts Council has decided that, in the immediate future, it will continue to concentrate funding on the London Symphony, Philharmonia and London Philharmonic orchestras. In addition, the Council has welcomed the emerging regional strategy of the Royal Philharmonic orchestra, for which it will also provide financial support.
The Council will be discussing this approach, and its longer-term policies with the Philharmonia and London Philharmonic orchestras, and with the Royal Philharmonic orchestra. In formulating its policies, the Council will take account of the general review of orchestral provision now being undertaken jointly with the BBC, and of the timing of decisions to be taken by the South Bank Board on the future of the orchestral residency at the royal festival hall.