From Gillian Perkins, Arts Consultant
I cannot be the only arts practitioner to rage at the figures given by Charles Morgan (AP issue 90, 31 January). Assuming these figures are correct, we should have a debate as to why Arts Council England is spending more on salaries now than under the previous regime of a central council and ten regional arts boards. We were sold the reorganisation because it would save money on administration, releasing more funds for the arts to spend on actual activities. Forgive me for being cynical, but what a surprise to find that this is not the case! No wonder HM Treasury is not keen on giving the arts more money. Guess where the cuts will come ? not on ACE staffing, I?m sure. The arts community deserves better, and we should be able to have a sensible debate about it. Currently it is little short of a disgrace.
Published: 14-02-2005