Wales decisions require sector input

Proposals to place a duty on local councils to promote access to the arts (AP198) have taken a further step forward in Wales. The Welsh Assembly’s Legislative Committee is seeking input from arts organisations, other interested parties and the general public on whether the National Assembly for Wales should be given the powers to make the the arts, culture and sport a statutory responsibility of local authorities. Any such move would have significant implications for local authorities, but also for the wider arts funding picture: the Arts Council of Wales is in the process of reviewing its funding to its current client base, with a view to establishing a renewed portfolio by March 2010. The deadline for submissions to the Assembly’s Legislative Committee is 4 September.