§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what was his subvention to(a) the National Orchestra of Wales, (b) the National Museum of Wales and (c) the principal theatres in Wales in 1997–98; and if he will make a statement. [44595]
§ Mr. Ron DaviesThe information requested by my hon. Friend is as follows:
- (a) the Welsh Office does not provide direct support for the arts but does so through grant in aid to the Arts Council of Wales. In 1997–98 the Arts Council's grant to the BBC National Orchestra was £609,875;
- (b) Welsh Office direct grant in aid to the National Museum and Galleries of Wales was £12.3 million;
- (c) the Arts Council's grants to the mainstream producing theatres Wales in 1997–98 amounted to £1.4 million.