HL Deb 16 December 1999 vol 608 cc54-5WA
Baroness Anelay of St Johns

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is their response to the statement in the 22nd annual report of the Theatres Trust, published this month, "that in many places outside London's West End theatre now faces a greater crisis of confidence than at any time since the war". [HL317]

Lord McIntosh of Haringey

The Government are conscious that many regional theatres face problems, some financial, some artistic, but all rooted in difficulties going back certainly for two decades. This is why my right honourable friend the Secretary of State agreed with the Arts Council the need for a thorough review of regional producing theatre and we expect that report in the first half of next year. The Government expect the report to recommend steps that will lead to the securing of the long-term future and worldwide reputation for excellence of England's regional theatre.