§ 26. Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster how often his new committee to encourage private sponsorship of the arts has met; and if he will make a statement on progress to date.
§ Mr. St. John-StevasThe Committee of Honour met for the first time on 3 June and had a very useful discussion. Its function is to advise me on the broad thrust of Government policy. In addition to some specific proposals which are being pursued, the committee rightly emphasised the importance of the principle of establishing a partnership between the public and private sectors in their support for the arts.
§ Mr. Canavanasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what response he has had to his recent appeal for sponsorship of the arts.
§ Mr. St. John-StevasThere has been a significant shift in the climate of opinion in favour of business sponsorship for the arts. Many more firms and arts bodies are exploring this under-developed source of support to their mutual advantage. In the coming months the Government will be seeking, through a programme of research, seminars and other events, to measure more accurately the volume of sponsorship and to stimulate its growth.