THEATRE FUNDING

Early day motion 221, tabled 21 November 2006 by Neil Gerrard (Labour). Signed by 82 members.

That this House recognises the valuable role that regional and local theatre plays in communities across the United Kingdom; believes that theatre is a key creative industry which justifies Government investment; notes that 25 million tickets to theatre, ballet and opera are sold every year in the United Kingdom; further notes that the Arts Council has estimated that the £120 million it invests in theatre annually generates £2.6 billion in resulting economic activity; recognises the work of theatres in fostering social inclusion through valuable education projects in local communities; notes the significant increase in the Government's theatre funding over the past decade; expresses concern at suggestions that the Government may reduce public funding for British theatres and orchestras below the rate of inflation following the coming Comprehensive Spending Review; seeks assurances that the 2012 Olympics will not adversely affect funding for the arts in the United Kingdom; and calls upon the Government to maintain increased theatre funding to ensure that the dramatic arts continue to perform at a world-class standard of which the country can be proud.

Signatures by party: Labour 54, Liberal Democrat 15, Conservative 8, Scottish National Party 2, Social Democratic and Labour Party 2, DUP 1.