HC Deb 05 December 1968 vol 774 cc530-1W
57. Mr. Henig

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what plans he has to bring about more top-class performances of opera and ballet outside London.

Miss Jennie Lee

This important question has been a principal concern of the Arts Council's Committee of Inquiry, whose report is expected early next year. In 1967–68, about 300 opera performances and 500 ballet performances were given outside London by major companies supported by the Arts Council. In addition, very valuable work is done by smaller companies such as "Opera for All" and "Ballet for All", which tour small towns all over the country.