Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Grassroots Arts and Culture: Luton

22 September 2020 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Rachel Hopkins Lab Luton South

Culture, Media & Sport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Rachel Hopkins raised concerns about grassroots arts and culture: luton in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Ms Hopkins highlighted the economic contribution of the creative sector in Luton before the pandemic.
  • The creative sector was growing at five times the rate of the wider economy and contributed 111 billion to the UK's GDP.
  • Many local artists and organisations are facing severe challenges due to the pandemic.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Rachel Hopkins Lab Luton South

Ms Hopkins emphasised the importance of grassroots arts and culture in Luton, highlighting its economic contribution and social benefits. She noted that before the pandemic, the creative sector was growing at five times the rate of the wider economy and contributed £111 billion to the UK's GDP. However, due to the pandemic, many local artists and organisations are facing severe challenges. The Government’s current response is inadequate as it does not address the needs of precarious workers, freelancers, and self-employed entrepreneurs.

Other contributors (2)
  • Sarah Owen Lab Luton North

    Ms Owen agreed with Ms Hopkins that specific support for grassroots arts and culture was vital to protect jobs, culture, and the economy in Luton. She mentioned Creative8 as an example of a local events business that is crucial not only for employment but also for cultural enrichment.

  • Caroline Dinenage Con Gosport

    The cultural and creative sectors are a UK success story, vital for community cohesion. Luton's 'People Power Passion' event exemplifies this. The Government provided £160 million in emergency funding to Arts Council England at the start of the pandemic, which supported organisations like Khayaal Theatre Company and Little Red Creative Studios. Additionally, the £1.57 billion culture recovery fund aims to support diversity and outreach initiatives. Grassroots venues have received £3.36 million from this fund. The Government's substantial funding package supports performing arts, theatres, museums, heritage sites, galleries, independent cinemas, and live music venues. Arts Council England has also offered additional support of £95 million for individuals, including freelancers. There is a focus on resuming cultural activities while maintaining social distancing.

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