§ Mr. Ian BruceTo ask the Minister for the Arts what information he has on the level of support for the Arts by private and corporate donations since 1979.
§ Mr. RentonComprehensive figures on donations to arts organisations are not available. I know, however, that they make a much valued contribution to the well-being of the arts. The gift aid scheme introduced in October 1990 has already attracted £ 200 million in donations to United Kingdom charities. The decision of my right hon. Friend the Chancellor to reduce the minimum threshold on qualifying gifts will provide a further important stimulus to charitable giving from which the arts and other good causes will derive substantial benefit.