ARTS COUNCIL FUNDING AND LIPSERVICE THEATRE COMPANY

Early day motion 707, tabled 15 January 2008 by John Leech (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 11 members.

That this House condemns the decision by the Arts Council to cut funding to LipService Theatre Company; notes with concern that the timing of the decision occurred over the Christmas period, leaving very limited time to appeal; recognises the unique contribution to the Arts made by LipService, described by the Independent newspaper as Britain's favourite literary lunatics; further notes with concern that LipService was given no warning or indication in its Annual Review 2007 that it would have its funding cut; and calls upon the Arts Council to reverse its proposal and reinstate funding to LipService for the coming year.

Signatures by party: Labour 5, Liberal Democrat 5, Conservative 1.