§ Nick HarveyTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what measures her Department has taken to extend social inclusiveness by increasing the involvement of identified priority groups in each of the sectors her Department has responsibility for; and if she will make a statement. [83746]
§ Mr. CabornOpening up our institutions to the wider community, to promote lifelong learning and social cohesion, is now a strategic priority for the Department. Progress on that priority will be assessed through one of the Department's four Public Service Agreement targets for the 2003–06 period
254Wto increase significantly take-up of cultural and sporting opportunities by new users aged 20 and above from priority groups.As set out in the DCMS Service Delivery Agreement, the cultural and sporting opportunities will include those provided by arts facilities funded via the Arts Council of England, the national and regional museums and galleries, community sport, the historic environment, and the internet via Culture Online. These initiatives will build on existing projects such as Creative Partnerships and Space for Sport and Arts, which are bringing new opportunities to deprived areas around the country.