HC Deb 27 July 1998 vol 317 c59W
21. Mr. Gerrard

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what action he is taking to broaden the audience range for the performing arts. [50788]

22. Mr. Soley

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what action he is taking to make the arts available to a wider audience. [50790]

Mr. Fisher

It is a core objective of my Department to create access to excellence for the many, not just the few. We are currently doing this through the New Audiences Fund; and on Friday I announced a major injection of new funds for the arts over the next three years which will enable a new contract with the arts sector to deliver our key objectives of access, education and excellence and strengthen the position of the arts as a key part of the creative industries.