ENGLISH NATIONAL OPERA

Early day motion 736, tabled 13 February 2003 by Lord Horam (Conservative). Signed by 27 members.

That this House greatly regrets the current situation at the English National Opera; recognises the contribution of the choristers to the success and quality of performances at the English National Opera; notes that the English National Opera, despite giving assurances to the choristers trade union, Equity, that during its closure their number would be maintained, intends to cut their number by a third; fears for the future of the English National Opera if these cuts go ahead; further notes that the English National Opera has already gone through stabilisation with the Arts Council of England and is seeking more money to pay for these redundancies; and urges the Government immediately to review the situation.

Signatures by party: Labour 12, Liberal Democrat 8, Conservative 6, Labour/Co-operative 1.