The Culture Secretary says her negotiation of arts funding is a success for the sector and explains why she won’t apologise for using economic arguments to justify subsidy.
Arts and culture are the lifeblood of this country. We are the nation of Shakespeare, Milton and Elgar. However, listening to some people you might be forgiven for thinking that arts and culture in this country are about to breathe their last; that tumbleweed is blowing down the aisles of our theatres and through our museums; and that the barbarians are at the gates. There are even those who peddle nonsense that the Department for Culture, Media and Sport is set to be abolished.
It would be laughable if it weren't so dispiriting for all those who work in the arts, and the millions – of which I am one – who regularly enjoy them. And if I'm honest, I'm frustrated that those of us who enjoy the arts are surrounded by this perpetual gloom. The truth is that we are not returning to the dark ages. It is worth spelling this out in very clear language: culture and the arts are vital. The government is not going to abandon its support for culture, and my department is most emphatically here to stay. Yes, this government has had to make some difficult decisions – but we have always tried to make sure that the arts are looked after. That is why this government reversed Labour's decision and restored the contribution the National Lottery makes to the same percentage as when it was launched by a Conservative government 19 years ago.
Arts and culture are the lifeblood of this country. We are the nation of Shakespeare, Milton and Elgar. However, listening to some people you might be forgiven for thinking that arts and culture in this country are about to breathe their last; that tumbleweed is blowing down the aisles of our theatres and through our museums; and that the barbarians are at the gates. There are even those who peddle nonsense that the Department for Culture, Media and Sport is set to be abolished.
It would be laughable if it weren't so dispiriting for all those who work in the arts, and the millions – of which I am one – who regularly enjoy them. And if I'm honest, I'm frustrated that those of us who enjoy the arts are surrounded by this perpetual gloom. The truth is that we are not returning to the dark ages. It is worth spelling this out in very clear language: culture and the arts are vital. The government is not going to abandon its support for culture, and my department is most emphatically here to stay. Yes, this government has had to make some difficult decisions – but we have always tried to make sure that the arts are looked after. That is why this government reversed Labour's decision and restored the contribution the National Lottery makes to the same percentage as when it was launched by a Conservative government 19 years ago.