HC Deb 22 July 1991 vol 195 c377W
31. Mrs. Currie

To ask the Minister for the Arts what advice he gives local authorities on their expenditure on arts and libraries.

Mr. Renton

The Government believe that local authorities themselves are best placed to take decisions on arts and libraries expenditure in the light of local needs, priorities and resources.

In the case of libraries, local authorities have a duty to provide a comprehensive and efficient library service and as part of my oversight of their services I issue guidance on good practice.

I also work with the regional arts associations, both directly and through the Arts Council, to promote local authority support for the arts.