NATIONAL ARTS DAY

Early day motion 230, tabled 21 December 1999 by Austin Mitchell (Labour). Signed by 139 members.

That this House, in the millennium year, welcomes the proposal to celebrate the Millennial National Arts Day on 24th June, Midsummer Day, as an exciting opportunity to draw attention to artistic activity across the country; believes that in the age of globalisation an annual day of celebration will give wider publicity to the nation's cultural achievements indelibly rooted here; considers that these achievements are worthy of greater recognition and investment; acknowledges that the arts reflect the country's traditions, values and multi-cultural way of life and have earned the admiration of the world in addition; points out that they are also a potent antidote to violence, hopelessness, social division and alienation by cutting across human divides; further believes that a National Arts Day would demonstrate that the arts do not belong on the periphery of daily life but at its centre, where they can contribute significantly to the Nation's well-being and quality of life; and urges the Minister of Culture, Media and Sport and the government to give their endorsement and support to the Millennial National Arts Day.

Signatures by party: Labour 98, Liberal Democrat 19, Conservative 9, Labour/Co-operative 6, DUP 2, Independent 1, Independent Labour 1, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1, UUP 1, Unknown 1.