§ Mr. ParryTo ask the Minister for the Arts whether he has met the chairman of the Arts Council to discuss the future funding of the Liverpool Playhouse.
§ Mr. RentonNo, sir. It would not be appropriate for me to seek to intervene in matters relating to the Arts Council's funding of individual client companies. But I am aware of the serious financial difficulties confronting the Liverpool Playhouse and I have met hon. Members from Merseyside, the board and the appointed administrator of the company. I very much hope that it will be possible, with local support, to secure the future of this famous theatre.