§ 24. Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what research he has conducted into the popularity of opera; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BrookeFigures made available to the Arts Council by the British Market Research Bureau indicate that 2.8 million—or over 6 per cent.—of the adult population attend opera performances. This represents an increase of over 30 per cent. in the last five years. Recent studies have also shown that, in addition to those who attend opera, 7 million people now have an interest in the art form. I warmly congratulate all those involved in opera in this country on this remarkable achievement.