Government seeks data on impact of energy price hikes

Arts organisations are being invited to give evidence on the impact of rising energy prices in a nationwide government survey.

Run by DCMS and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, the Energy Bill Relief Scheme survey is expected to help government identify which sectors will require ongoing support with energy costs after the current universal price guarantee ends next March.

To complete the survey, organisations will need data on energy consumption and costs and overall income and expenditure.

The Museums Association (MA) has urged as many museums and galleries as possible to complete the survey.

"We are making a strong case to government for the price cap to continue for our sector after the initial six-month period. It is vital that museums respond to this call for information to provide the evidence of impact," MA Director Sharon Heal said.

The survey is open until Monday 24 October. Arts Council England has published guidance for the survey on its website.