§ 19. Mr. Hannamasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what measures he is taking to assist the regional theatres in view of the present economic situation.
§ Mr. Hugh JenkinsAssistance for subsidised regional theatres is a matter for the Arts Council, local authorities and others. For the current year regional theatres received additional benefit from the summer supplementary grant of £0.75 million for VAT claims arising from 1973–74. I have no doubt they will also benefit from the further winter Supplementary Estimate of £1.75 million, if approved by Parliament. The administration of this extra money will be a matter for the Arts Council.