Supporting UK Artists and Culture

Called for measures to support the arts, such as extending theatre tax relief. Criticised Arts Council England's funding decisions, highlighting cuts to English National Opera and Donmar Warehouse. Emphasised lack of consultation and political direction in decision-making.

Bob Neill criticised the Arts Council for proposing to move English National Opera (ENO), arguing it is effectively closure with no consultation. He stated that relocating ENO within three years is impossible, would result in job losses, and contradicts the Arts Council's goal of growing opera. ENO has produced notable British operatic talent and a diverse audience demographic.

Highlighted Cornwall's thriving creative arts scene, noting the significant contributions from institutions like Falmouth University and Hall for Cornwall. Urged continued government support for local cultural assets while acknowledging ongoing challenges such as low wages, affordable housing shortages, and skills gaps.

Praised the importance of arts and culture in transforming lives, particularly highlighting London's cultural sector and its impact on diverse communities. Questioned whether levelling down London's renowned cultural sector would help level up the rest of the country.

Ms Harman expressed concern about the Arts Council's decision to cut funding for the English National Opera at the Coliseum, leading to the loss of 300 jobs. She criticised the lack of consultation and misleading spin regarding the proposed relocation of ENO outside London. Ms Harman called for a strategic review of opera, four years of realistic funding for ENO, and five years for consultation on a new model.

Asked for a better definition of 'levelling up' when it comes to opera, questioning the focus on location over education and perception.

The Scottish Government has provided additional funding for culture and heritage, but Scotland needs borrowing powers to address critical issues. The cultural sector faces a 7.1% drop in disposable income over the next two years due to Brexit's impact on revenue streams from EU audiences. John Nicolson calls for UK Government efforts at negotiation to mitigate these effects.

Mr Brennan declared his interests in the Musicians' Union and PRS for Music. He expressed agreement with the hon. Member for Gosport, highlighting the importance of Cardiff's creative industries and arts to its economy and culture. He mentioned five key issues: the 'Let the Music Move' report on musicians touring in Europe post-Brexit; recent cuts by Arts Council England affecting cultural organisations; the Government's decision on artificial intelligence which gives tech companies unrestricted access to artists' work without compensation; the need for better artist payment through streaming platforms; and the upcoming UK Music diversity report. Mr Brennan intervened to note that the Welsh National Opera performs in Bristol.

Margaret Hodge, chair of Theatre Royal Stratford East, discussed the English National Opera's funding cuts and their impact on a unique facility in London. She argued that destroying excellence undermines levelling up efforts and congratulated ENO for collaborating with Theatre Royal Stratford East to engage young children from east London, securing an Olivier award. Ms Hodge agreed with the previous speaker that there is a misunderstanding about arts investment in London. She pointed out that national institutions like the British Museum should not be included, and the audience for London entertainment comes from the south-east where funding per capita is low.

The MP highlighted the vibrant arts and culture sector in her constituency, including iconic venues such as Ronnie Scott's and the Royal Albert Hall. She expressed concern about the English National Opera's future due to funding cuts from Arts Council England and criticised the tight timeframe for decision-making without proper consultation with stakeholders. Aiken also stressed the economic importance of cultural events like theatres and pantomimes in driving local economies and job creation.