Local Libraries and Regional Museums 2022-03-24
2022-03-24
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP inquired about the Department's efforts to support local libraries and regional museums.
What steps her Department is taking to support local libraries and regional museums?
The Department works closely with public sector bodies to support the libraries and museums sector. This includes £5 million investment in library services through the Libraries Improvement Fund and £18.8 million of investment through the Museum Estate and Development Fund this year.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP thanked the Department for significant financial support provided to Aerospace Bristol and asked if consideration would be given to its application for a national portfolio organisation.
Will he give serious consideration to its application to become an Arts Council national portfolio organisation for 2023 to 2026?
The Arts Council decides independently based on applications received. The Minister cannot comment specifically but wishes Aerospace Bristol all the best in its application, acknowledging it as a great institution.
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Assessment & feedback
Minister cannot comment specifically
Cannot Comment
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP expressed concern that libraries, which are accessible cultural institutions, may not be adequately supported by local authorities due to their statutory obligation.
What steps will the Minister take to ensure that local authorities are meeting their statutory obligation and that our libraries continue to offer access to all communities?
The partnership between central Government, DCMS through various funds, and local authorities is important. If there are issues with inappropriate closures, the Secretary of State could intervene.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific steps mentioned
If There Are Issues
Secretary Of State Could Intervene
Response accuracy
Q4
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP thanked the Department for investment in Bury Transport Museum, which preserves heritage and provides education and skills training. He invited the Minister to visit.
Will he agree to visit that brilliant museum and view its proposed £10 million project at Buckley Wells?
The Minister would be delighted to visit Bury Transport Museum, acknowledging its importance for preserving industrial heritage and education.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP, as chair of the John Clare Trust, raised concerns about neglect towards smaller literary houses and museums by the National Trust.
Will the Minister do something for me and give the National Trust a good shaking?
The Minister would be happy to raise valid points with the National Trust, although it is an independent institution. He meets regularly with it.
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Assessment & feedback
Independent institution
Independent Institution
Response accuracy
Q6
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP welcomed investment in Darlington Hall and the Head of Steam museum by Tees Valley Combined Authority. He asked about further steps to support such heritage sites.
Will the Minister outline what further steps his Department can take to support such local heritage sites?
The culture recovery fund and National Lottery Heritage Fund have supported many heritage institutions. The Minister would be happy to discuss further how the National Lottery Heritage Fund can support their goals.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific steps mentioned
Happy To Talk
Response accuracy
Q7
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlighted a 27% decline in spending on local museums by local government since 2010 and asked about the Department's role in ensuring councils invest.
What is the Minister's Department doing to ensure that councils invest in local museums so that we can continue to tell the story of our local communities?
This is a partnership between central Government, local authorities, and private sector contributions. The Minister's Department provides support through various funds including £18.8 million this year from the Museum Estate and Development Fund.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific steps mentioned for councils
Partnership
Response accuracy