Arts play second fiddle

There is no specific mention of the arts or culture in the DCMS’s recently published Structural Reform Plan, which is its “blueprint for activity” for the next three years. The immediate priorities are delivering universal broadband; delivering a successful Olympic Games; reforming the media; encouraging competitive sport among young people; and promoting tourism and the creative industries. The DCMS will publish plans for the arts after the comprehensive spending review in October, when it knows what its budget will be.
In addition to the priority announcements, Jeremy Hunt has begun planning the DCMS’s contribution to the government’s aim of saving £1bn each year through the Public Bodies (Reform) Bill, which will be introduced next year. Hunt proposes to abolish the UK Film Council (transferring its responsibilities to the British Film Institute); “wind down” the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council by 2012; and rethink or declassify a number of quangos, including The Theatres Trust. He said, “Many of these bodies were set up a considerable length of time ago, and times and demands have changed. In the light of the current financial situation, and as part of our drive to increase openness and efficiency across Whitehall, it is the right time to look again at the role, size and scope of these organisations.” Under the Bill, public bodies will be reviewed every three years, rather than five as is the case now.
Hunt has also commissioned Neil MacGregor, Director of the British Museum, to prepare a report on the feasibility of developing endowments. While a number of UK cultural institutions already have endowments of varying sizes, the government is keen to understand the pros and cons as part of programme to drive philanthropy.