§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what recent discussions he has had with the regional cultural consortiums regarding initiatives to promote British museums and heritage abroad. [143121]
§ Mr. Alan HowarthMy right hon. Friend has had no discussions on this issue.
The Regional Cultural Consortiums are independent advisory bodies providing a focus for each region's cultural and creative interests. They are currently developing cultural strategies to be published in the first half of next year. Each strategy will identify the priorities for that region's cultural development over the next few years. Museums and heritage issues will be included. The Consortiums are working closely with Regional Development Agencies to support their strategies and further the economic prosperity of each region.