HC Deb 04 February 1999 vol 324 cc747-8W
Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his policy on the funding of regional(a) theatres and (b) orchestras. [68360]

Mr. Michael

Welsh Office support for the arts is channelled through the Arts Council of Wales (ACW), which takes decisions on the detailed financial allocation to individual arts organisations. The ACW is in the process of consulting the public on its future strategy. I have helped that process by providing the ACW with the first real terms increase in its budget for a number of years. I have also announced a new programme on the next three years to develop and support orchestral and ensemble music involving children and young people.

In future this will become the responsibility of the National Assembly.