§ 105. Mr. Brandon-BravoTo ask the Minister for the Arts what plans he has to encourage touring companies and exhibitions to reach a wider audience in the regions.
§ Mr. LuceI have been able to provide a substantial increase in the Arts Council's grant for the next three years. Out of this increase, I have asked it to ensure that £5 million in 1988–89, rising to £7 million in 1990–91, is spent on incentive funding and increased touring in the regions.
The Arts Council also plans to establish an independent production company for which it will provide one-third of the investment required, to produce and exploit major regional touring drama productions. Any financial benefit which this venture produces, either from touring or from transfers of productions to the commercial theatre, will be used to supplement moneys already set aside for touring purposes in general.