§ Mr. CummingsTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage if he will make a statement on the funding of pub theatres.
§ Mr. BrookeOver the past 20 years, pub theatres have added a new and lively dimension to theatre life in London and elsewhere. They have an important role to play in the encouragement of new writing for the theatre. The funding of the theatres is a matter for the Arts Council and the regional arts boards. I understand that the London arts board provides support to the work that takes place in some pub venues, for example this year the King's Head in Islington will receive £38,222, and £15,352 is being allocated to the Gate in Notting Hill.