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Chris Bryant webchat – as it happened Election 2015 culture webchat: Chris Bryant – as it happened
(2 days later)
2.59pm GMT14:592.59pm GMT14:59
jenny_stevens asks:jenny_stevens asks:
Should politicians be allowed to go to music festivals?Should politicians be allowed to go to music festivals?
They should be obliged to go to music festivals.They should be obliged to go to music festivals.
2.17pm GMT14:172.17pm GMT14:17
That's it! Thank you for all your questionsThat's it! Thank you for all your questions
Goodbye, so long, Auf Wiedersehn, adieu.Goodbye, so long, Auf Wiedersehn, adieu.
Updated at 2.58pm GMTUpdated at 2.58pm GMT
2.15pm GMT14:152.15pm GMT14:15
OneNilToTheArsenal asks:OneNilToTheArsenal asks:
Why on earth do Labour not fight back on their economic record in government? The Tories +LDs constantly blame the global banking crisis on Gordon Brown, and you roll over and let them. Everyone knows it was the bankers, its an easy open goal to use that to attach the Cons, yet you roll over and let then do it. They want to fight this election on the same lines as 2010 and Labour need to change the rhetoric and fight back, but will you?Why on earth do Labour not fight back on their economic record in government? The Tories +LDs constantly blame the global banking crisis on Gordon Brown, and you roll over and let them. Everyone knows it was the bankers, its an easy open goal to use that to attach the Cons, yet you roll over and let then do it. They want to fight this election on the same lines as 2010 and Labour need to change the rhetoric and fight back, but will you?
You're absolutely right.You're absolutely right.
2.14pm GMT14:142.14pm GMT14:14
ITilden asks:ITilden asks:
What would you do about English National Opera? Is its leadership its problem? Or the venue itself? Or the genre? Should the Arts Council continue to fund it?What would you do about English National Opera? Is its leadership its problem? Or the venue itself? Or the genre? Should the Arts Council continue to fund it?
I believe in the arm's length principle. The Arts Council should make its decisions independent of ministers. The one thing that galls me though is that plenty of arts organisations based in Westminster get funding from the taxpayer, yet Westminster council which is one of the richest in the land and benefits directly from that public investment, contributes barely a penny to the arts itself.I believe in the arm's length principle. The Arts Council should make its decisions independent of ministers. The one thing that galls me though is that plenty of arts organisations based in Westminster get funding from the taxpayer, yet Westminster council which is one of the richest in the land and benefits directly from that public investment, contributes barely a penny to the arts itself.
2.11pm GMT14:112.11pm GMT14:11
'I've tried to read Wolf Hall...twice''I've tried to read Wolf Hall...twice'
AndrewGilchrist asks:AndrewGilchrist asks:
Have you read Wolf Hall?Have you read Wolf Hall?
I've tried, twice. I'm a fan of Thomas Cromwell, and I watched the TV series.I've tried, twice. I'm a fan of Thomas Cromwell, and I watched the TV series.
And I'm writing a historical novel of my own, called The Glamour Boys, set in the 1930s.And I'm writing a historical novel of my own, called The Glamour Boys, set in the 1930s.
Updated at 2.59pm GMTUpdated at 2.59pm GMT
2.10pm GMT14:102.10pm GMT14:10
'There has been a shocking lack of leadership shown by the government on library services''There has been a shocking lack of leadership shown by the government on library services'
C1aireA asks:C1aireA asks:
What is your line on libraries? Last month we heard that the opening hours of Birmingham’s sparkly new £188 million library were going to be cut from 73 to 40 hours a week. We also heard that, as part of a £170m restoration, Manchester’s new central library had disposed of 240,000 works of non-fiction. How will you deal with this apparent disjunction between top-line, look-at-me investment and the archival and day-to-day commitment that is the life-blood of a healthy library system?What is your line on libraries? Last month we heard that the opening hours of Birmingham’s sparkly new £188 million library were going to be cut from 73 to 40 hours a week. We also heard that, as part of a £170m restoration, Manchester’s new central library had disposed of 240,000 works of non-fiction. How will you deal with this apparent disjunction between top-line, look-at-me investment and the archival and day-to-day commitment that is the life-blood of a healthy library system?
There has been a shocking lack of leadership shown by the government since 2010. The Sieghart review, which came out just before Christmas, suggested that there should be a task and finish group which should look at providing that leadership across England. We presently have 151 library authorities, which rarely co-operate or co-ordinate their activities. I'm certain there could be savings which could be channelled back into library services, which is why I intend to chair that task and finish group myself, along with a DCLG minister. If we win!There has been a shocking lack of leadership shown by the government since 2010. The Sieghart review, which came out just before Christmas, suggested that there should be a task and finish group which should look at providing that leadership across England. We presently have 151 library authorities, which rarely co-operate or co-ordinate their activities. I'm certain there could be savings which could be channelled back into library services, which is why I intend to chair that task and finish group myself, along with a DCLG minister. If we win!
Updated at 2.59pm GMTUpdated at 2.59pm GMT
2.04pm GMT14:042.04pm GMT14:04
Jonathan Morris asks:Jonathan Morris asks:
Is Labour going to do /anything/ about our creative industries getting their material ripped off by YouTube etc. Like, urgently.Is Labour going to do /anything/ about our creative industries getting their material ripped off by YouTube etc. Like, urgently.
Yes, definitely. It is embarrassing that the prime minister has written to the European Commission to say that he agrees with their policy of creating a single digital market. Which could cause untold damage to UK intellectual property. Not only is the prime minister's letter economically illiterate but I think he's only written it to seem helpful to the commission when he is trying to get a renegotiation of Britain's membership of the EU to appease his howling backbenchers. One songwriter recently told me that one of his songs as performed by One Direction had been listened to several millions times on Spotify or YouTube, yet he has only earned a few hundred pounds from it. Protecting IP is a key part of our industrial strategy for the creative industries.Yes, definitely. It is embarrassing that the prime minister has written to the European Commission to say that he agrees with their policy of creating a single digital market. Which could cause untold damage to UK intellectual property. Not only is the prime minister's letter economically illiterate but I think he's only written it to seem helpful to the commission when he is trying to get a renegotiation of Britain's membership of the EU to appease his howling backbenchers. One songwriter recently told me that one of his songs as performed by One Direction had been listened to several millions times on Spotify or YouTube, yet he has only earned a few hundred pounds from it. Protecting IP is a key part of our industrial strategy for the creative industries.
2.03pm GMT14:032.03pm GMT14:03
'I have no opinion on Status Quo. Nor on jazz''I have no opinion on Status Quo. Nor on jazz'
Tellycaster asks:Tellycaster asks:
Will there be more rock? What is your policy on Quo?Will there be more rock? What is your policy on Quo?
I don't have one. Nor on jazz.I don't have one. Nor on jazz.
Updated at 2.59pm GMTUpdated at 2.59pm GMT
2.02pm GMT14:022.02pm GMT14:02
Antiquarian asks:Antiquarian asks:
The Brown government had a Heritage White Paper ready to go just before the crisis. It included some very useful items, including designation reform, proper weight to Historic Environment Records and, interestingly given the ISIS philistinism, retification of the 1954 Hague Convention on protection of cultural property in time of War. Will a Labour government make good its 2010 commitment to the heritage sector and bring forward this legislation again?The Brown government had a Heritage White Paper ready to go just before the crisis. It included some very useful items, including designation reform, proper weight to Historic Environment Records and, interestingly given the ISIS philistinism, retification of the 1954 Hague Convention on protection of cultural property in time of War. Will a Labour government make good its 2010 commitment to the heritage sector and bring forward this legislation again?
We will ratify the 1954 Hague convention, and I'm mystified why the present government hasn't done so. One of the most important things Labour did earlier in the 20th century was introduce the protection of important heritage sites. When he was first commissioner of works, 1929-1931, George Lansbury saved Hadrian's Wall and Stonehenge. And in the 1940s we introduced the Town and Country Planning Act which stopped people putting up advertising hoardings all over the countryside and inaugurated the protection of listed buildings.We will ratify the 1954 Hague convention, and I'm mystified why the present government hasn't done so. One of the most important things Labour did earlier in the 20th century was introduce the protection of important heritage sites. When he was first commissioner of works, 1929-1931, George Lansbury saved Hadrian's Wall and Stonehenge. And in the 1940s we introduced the Town and Country Planning Act which stopped people putting up advertising hoardings all over the countryside and inaugurated the protection of listed buildings.
We will watch the launch of Historic England with interest because I'm concerned to make sure that we protect that which is beautiful, and enhance that which is of real merit.We will watch the launch of Historic England with interest because I'm concerned to make sure that we protect that which is beautiful, and enhance that which is of real merit.
2.00pm GMT14:002.00pm GMT14:00
c8th3r1n3 writes:c8th3r1n3 writes:
I don’t think you should dumb down the arts. Like science, it should inspire excellence and quality – elite art needs to prove that it is being opened up to everyone to get public funding and not just offer 2x £10 tickets per performance.I don’t think you should dumb down the arts. Like science, it should inspire excellence and quality – elite art needs to prove that it is being opened up to everyone to get public funding and not just offer 2x £10 tickets per performance.
We need to put the history of our culture into context and make it relevant for today, e.g. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is world class (for science, art and culture). Invest in quality get the rewards backWe need to put the history of our culture into context and make it relevant for today, e.g. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is world class (for science, art and culture). Invest in quality get the rewards back
Diversity: culture is about all of us not just white men living in the south east. This should be fundamental to the left wing and public funding should not be going to organisations that make no effort to engage or employ outside the usual privileged demographic.Diversity: culture is about all of us not just white men living in the south east. This should be fundamental to the left wing and public funding should not be going to organisations that make no effort to engage or employ outside the usual privileged demographic.
All that being said, if you had a choice to fund the Royal Opera House or a successful arts programme that runs in many UK prisons and you can only fund one which would it be?All that being said, if you had a choice to fund the Royal Opera House or a successful arts programme that runs in many UK prisons and you can only fund one which would it be?
You're right, if you sell tickets to a National Theatre show that are normally £40 to exactly the same people for £10, you haven't done anything to address diversity or increase the reach of your arts organisation. That's why every arts organisation in the land has to think hard about programming, so that they attract new audiences, and opening themselves up to the wider community in which they sit.You're right, if you sell tickets to a National Theatre show that are normally £40 to exactly the same people for £10, you haven't done anything to address diversity or increase the reach of your arts organisation. That's why every arts organisation in the land has to think hard about programming, so that they attract new audiences, and opening themselves up to the wider community in which they sit.
Incidentally, I believe that any organisation that has the word 'national' or 'royal' in it and attracts public funding, has to work even harder to prove they are genuinely there for the whole country. The Tate has tried hard, so has the National Theatre. And last week I visited the Royal Opera House's amazing design centre in Purfleet - that's precisely the kind of outreach every arts organisation needs to be engaged in.Incidentally, I believe that any organisation that has the word 'national' or 'royal' in it and attracts public funding, has to work even harder to prove they are genuinely there for the whole country. The Tate has tried hard, so has the National Theatre. And last week I visited the Royal Opera House's amazing design centre in Purfleet - that's precisely the kind of outreach every arts organisation needs to be engaged in.
1.56pm GMT13:561.56pm GMT13:56
Al Cummin asks:Al Cummin asks:
What’s your opinion on the kind of material nominated for the Turner Prize? Art, or pretentious nonsense?What’s your opinion on the kind of material nominated for the Turner Prize? Art, or pretentious nonsense?
Was it Plato that said beauty is in the eye of the beholder? Maybe pretension is too.Was it Plato that said beauty is in the eye of the beholder? Maybe pretension is too.
1.54pm GMT13:541.54pm GMT13:54
StrawBear asks:StrawBear asks:
Given the increasingly precarious position of the BBC over the last few decades, under all parties, would you rather the BBC be cut free from any and all govt interference, (given a licence fee tied to the economy, independent oversight etc), or would you rather see the BBC be totally privatised?Given the increasingly precarious position of the BBC over the last few decades, under all parties, would you rather the BBC be cut free from any and all govt interference, (given a licence fee tied to the economy, independent oversight etc), or would you rather see the BBC be totally privatised?
I believe in a strong BBC. Funded by the licence fee, and accountable to licence fee payers. We have a unique ecosystem in this country, with a mix of commercial and public service broadcasters. It would be utter folly to dismantle that.I believe in a strong BBC. Funded by the licence fee, and accountable to licence fee payers. We have a unique ecosystem in this country, with a mix of commercial and public service broadcasters. It would be utter folly to dismantle that.
1.53pm GMT13:531.53pm GMT13:53
Tom Reynolds asks:Tom Reynolds asks:
I’m a proud Labour supporter but am not surprised by the upsurge in popularity of UKIP and the SNP when you look at today’s headlines. Labour going negative on the Tory’s spending plans without really saying how we’d do things differently, the Tories going negative of the possible coalition with the Nats. I firmly believe the SNP and UKIP present are bad for the country but their alternative vision for the UK comes across in contrast to the wave of negativity from the mainstream parties. Do you agree that Labour appeals to more key-seat voters when we have a positive message to sell, and when will our alternative vision start to make the headlines instead of bitching and process stories?I’m a proud Labour supporter but am not surprised by the upsurge in popularity of UKIP and the SNP when you look at today’s headlines. Labour going negative on the Tory’s spending plans without really saying how we’d do things differently, the Tories going negative of the possible coalition with the Nats. I firmly believe the SNP and UKIP present are bad for the country but their alternative vision for the UK comes across in contrast to the wave of negativity from the mainstream parties. Do you agree that Labour appeals to more key-seat voters when we have a positive message to sell, and when will our alternative vision start to make the headlines instead of bitching and process stories?
Please read Ed Miliband's speech on the arts – there's not an ounce of negativity in it.Please read Ed Miliband's speech on the arts – there's not an ounce of negativity in it.
1.52pm GMT13:521.52pm GMT13:52
ID7984850 asks:ID7984850 asks:
Under the coalition arts organisation have been encouraged (forced) to define themselves in economic terms. To explain how we offer ‘value for money’. To demonstrate our financial contribution to society. To ‘measure’ our success. The Tories have chosen to brand us as self-indulgent, leaden, cliquey and a drain on the economy when every study and piece of research has shown that the reverse is true. We are fleet of foot, expert at managing and exploiting our scant resources, inclusive, flexible and a net contributor to the economy. If you win the next election how will the Labour party value the arts and how will you measure our success?Under the coalition arts organisation have been encouraged (forced) to define themselves in economic terms. To explain how we offer ‘value for money’. To demonstrate our financial contribution to society. To ‘measure’ our success. The Tories have chosen to brand us as self-indulgent, leaden, cliquey and a drain on the economy when every study and piece of research has shown that the reverse is true. We are fleet of foot, expert at managing and exploiting our scant resources, inclusive, flexible and a net contributor to the economy. If you win the next election how will the Labour party value the arts and how will you measure our success?
I couldn't agree more with you. There are lots of benefits that accrue from having a strong set of creative industries in this country. In terms of jobs, wealth creation, and tackling deprivation. But the most important thing about the arts is that through music, theatre, dance, graphic art, we are changed as humans. I understand the tick box mentality around arts funding, but in the end my ambition is quite simple: I want more people to go to the theatre, see a live concert, play an instrument, dance, read a book, write a poem, create a videogame. Every year.I couldn't agree more with you. There are lots of benefits that accrue from having a strong set of creative industries in this country. In terms of jobs, wealth creation, and tackling deprivation. But the most important thing about the arts is that through music, theatre, dance, graphic art, we are changed as humans. I understand the tick box mentality around arts funding, but in the end my ambition is quite simple: I want more people to go to the theatre, see a live concert, play an instrument, dance, read a book, write a poem, create a videogame. Every year.
1.49pm GMT13:491.49pm GMT13:49
justabouthere asks:justabouthere asks:
It seems that at every Question Time I watch, there is a view that the SNP is the only political voice for anti-austerity in the UK. Given the role that the creative industries generally play in giving us our everyday feel-good factor, how much of a priority do you see them being given in any future Labour government?It seems that at every Question Time I watch, there is a view that the SNP is the only political voice for anti-austerity in the UK. Given the role that the creative industries generally play in giving us our everyday feel-good factor, how much of a priority do you see them being given in any future Labour government?
Ed Miliband has said that he wants creativity to be at the heart of every department in government. That's why he is intending to set up a new prime minister's committee on the arts, whose first task will be to tackle the disparity in funding between London and the rest of the UK.Ed Miliband has said that he wants creativity to be at the heart of every department in government. That's why he is intending to set up a new prime minister's committee on the arts, whose first task will be to tackle the disparity in funding between London and the rest of the UK.
1.48pm GMT13:481.48pm GMT13:48
Ali_Bailey asks:Ali_Bailey asks:
How will Labour meaningfully tackle the lack of diversity found in the creative industries, a seemingly liberal sector that behaves in a very conservative way?How will Labour meaningfully tackle the lack of diversity found in the creative industries, a seemingly liberal sector that behaves in a very conservative way?
For a start, Ofcom could take its role in monitoring diversity in broadcasting more seriously. The law already provides for them to do this, and it is embarrassing that so few BAME people are now working in the media. As the Baftas so evidently showed.For a start, Ofcom could take its role in monitoring diversity in broadcasting more seriously. The law already provides for them to do this, and it is embarrassing that so few BAME people are now working in the media. As the Baftas so evidently showed.
1.47pm GMT13:471.47pm GMT13:47
'Eddie Redmayne is an amazing actor, but I want everybody to have a chance to prosper in the arts''Eddie Redmayne is an amazing actor, but I want everybody to have a chance to prosper in the arts'
semipartisansam asks:semipartisansam asks:
You recently criticised the arts & culture establishment for the dominance of public school educated actors such as Benedict Cumberbatch and Eddie Redmayne, and in your comments on the matter suggested that we needed to see more “gritty” roles on film and television. Why do you believe that working class actors are only capable of playing gritty roles, and does the fact that you assume working class people are “gritty” speak volumes about Labour’s condescending attitude to their former base?You recently criticised the arts & culture establishment for the dominance of public school educated actors such as Benedict Cumberbatch and Eddie Redmayne, and in your comments on the matter suggested that we needed to see more “gritty” roles on film and television. Why do you believe that working class actors are only capable of playing gritty roles, and does the fact that you assume working class people are “gritty” speak volumes about Labour’s condescending attitude to their former base?
Plenty of actors, including Julie Walters, David Morrissey and others, have pointed to the fact that it is increasingly difficult to get on in the theatre unless you come from a monied comfortable background. I think Eddie Redmayne is an amazing actor, his Richard II was the best I have seen. But I want everybody to have a chance to prosper in the arts, and it is a depressing fact that over the last few years the number of people from BMAE communities working in the media has fallen. It's not my job to tell broadcasters what programmes they should or shouldn't commission, and I accept that while some people want films to that transport them to another place, I still think it is good to have a mixture. So that people can see their own lives reflected in TV programmes and films as well.Plenty of actors, including Julie Walters, David Morrissey and others, have pointed to the fact that it is increasingly difficult to get on in the theatre unless you come from a monied comfortable background. I think Eddie Redmayne is an amazing actor, his Richard II was the best I have seen. But I want everybody to have a chance to prosper in the arts, and it is a depressing fact that over the last few years the number of people from BMAE communities working in the media has fallen. It's not my job to tell broadcasters what programmes they should or shouldn't commission, and I accept that while some people want films to that transport them to another place, I still think it is good to have a mixture. So that people can see their own lives reflected in TV programmes and films as well.
Updated at 2.59pm GMTUpdated at 2.59pm GMT
1.44pm GMT13:441.44pm GMT13:44
'I played the cello at school, and was shockingly bad''I played the cello at school, and was shockingly bad'
DistortedView writes:DistortedView writes:
The free music lessons I received as a child enabled me to embark on a career as a professional cellist for which I will forever be grateful as my parents could never have afforded my tuition themselves. I am saddened and baffled by the coalition’s attitude towards the Arts; 25 million cut from the music budget in the last five years alone has meant that instrumental lessons are now out of reach for thousands of children. The positive impact that music has on social development, let alone on broader academic development, cannot be overstated; you have only to look at El Sistema in Venezuela to see what universal music education can achieve. Michael Gove’s decision to declare music ‘ineligible’ for the new EBaccalaureate has led to many schools quietly dropping the subject in order to concentrate funding elsewhere. (Along with Art and Drama) In the past month alone, two excellent local music services (Bromley and Kirklees) employing hundreds and serving thousands have had their entire council funding cut. A generation of children are going to grow up inestimable poorer than I did 20 years ago. It’s easy, some would say necessary, to regard music and other arts as a luxury when the NHS, defense, welfare and foreign aid budgets need to be accounted for. But I believe it’s just as important to care for our souls as our bodies and frankly, the next generation’s looking malnourished. What, if anything, are Labour planning to reverse this tragic situation?The free music lessons I received as a child enabled me to embark on a career as a professional cellist for which I will forever be grateful as my parents could never have afforded my tuition themselves. I am saddened and baffled by the coalition’s attitude towards the Arts; 25 million cut from the music budget in the last five years alone has meant that instrumental lessons are now out of reach for thousands of children. The positive impact that music has on social development, let alone on broader academic development, cannot be overstated; you have only to look at El Sistema in Venezuela to see what universal music education can achieve. Michael Gove’s decision to declare music ‘ineligible’ for the new EBaccalaureate has led to many schools quietly dropping the subject in order to concentrate funding elsewhere. (Along with Art and Drama) In the past month alone, two excellent local music services (Bromley and Kirklees) employing hundreds and serving thousands have had their entire council funding cut. A generation of children are going to grow up inestimable poorer than I did 20 years ago. It’s easy, some would say necessary, to regard music and other arts as a luxury when the NHS, defense, welfare and foreign aid budgets need to be accounted for. But I believe it’s just as important to care for our souls as our bodies and frankly, the next generation’s looking malnourished. What, if anything, are Labour planning to reverse this tragic situation?
I played the cello at school, and was shockingly bad, but you make an important point. Every child should have a chance to play a musical instrument, sing, act, dance, write a play, stage manage, or find some other creative outlet. Creativity will be the powerhouse of Britain's future economic prosperity and you have to start with the children. One thing we must stop is suggesting that an arts qualification will hold you back for the rest of your life, as one government minister put it. We need to give incentives to schools to provide a good artistic education, including a recognition by Ofsted and in school league tables.I played the cello at school, and was shockingly bad, but you make an important point. Every child should have a chance to play a musical instrument, sing, act, dance, write a play, stage manage, or find some other creative outlet. Creativity will be the powerhouse of Britain's future economic prosperity and you have to start with the children. One thing we must stop is suggesting that an arts qualification will hold you back for the rest of your life, as one government minister put it. We need to give incentives to schools to provide a good artistic education, including a recognition by Ofsted and in school league tables.
Local authorities are facing a very tough time, which is why I am terrified of another five years of swingeing cuts to local council budgets. Osborne says he wants public expenditure to be 35% of GDP - that can only mean even tougher cuts than we've already seen. This is no longer cutting back to the bone.Local authorities are facing a very tough time, which is why I am terrified of another five years of swingeing cuts to local council budgets. Osborne says he wants public expenditure to be 35% of GDP - that can only mean even tougher cuts than we've already seen. This is no longer cutting back to the bone.
I'd say one other thing though, the arts have an intrinsic value. They change us. They teach us how to turn up on time, be part of a team, express ourselves, restrain ourselves, find our light, find our voice, see things through somebody else's eyes. We should never lose sight of that fundamental premise.I'd say one other thing though, the arts have an intrinsic value. They change us. They teach us how to turn up on time, be part of a team, express ourselves, restrain ourselves, find our light, find our voice, see things through somebody else's eyes. We should never lose sight of that fundamental premise.
Updated at 2.59pm GMTUpdated at 2.59pm GMT
1.31pm GMT13:311.31pm GMT13:31
'The arts needs sustained levels of funding, not occasional patronage...''The arts needs sustained levels of funding, not occasional patronage...'
kzznzz asks:kzznzz asks:
Arts funding in Northern Ireland has now fallen to somewhere in the region of 11p per person per week spend. In a region of the UK where arts and culture could be used as a tool for social cohesion, what will a Labour government do to support and urge Stormont to allocate more funds to the arts in NI? People in NI need non-partisan/sectarian/traditional/entrenched cultural activities to engage in and to help it feel connected to the rest of the UK and Ireland.Arts funding in Northern Ireland has now fallen to somewhere in the region of 11p per person per week spend. In a region of the UK where arts and culture could be used as a tool for social cohesion, what will a Labour government do to support and urge Stormont to allocate more funds to the arts in NI? People in NI need non-partisan/sectarian/traditional/entrenched cultural activities to engage in and to help it feel connected to the rest of the UK and Ireland.
Obviously arts funding in Northern Ireland is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland assembly. And whilst I agree that the arts can be a vital tool in combatting prejudice and long-held sectarianism, the last thing Northern Ireland needs is Chris Bryant MP telling them what organisations to fund or ignore. The overarching question of national expenditure under the Tories' plans of course applies.Obviously arts funding in Northern Ireland is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland assembly. And whilst I agree that the arts can be a vital tool in combatting prejudice and long-held sectarianism, the last thing Northern Ireland needs is Chris Bryant MP telling them what organisations to fund or ignore. The overarching question of national expenditure under the Tories' plans of course applies.
What do I think of 'northern powerhouses'? George Osborne loves baubles and seems quite happy to reach in his pocket when a brilliant idea comes along. But the arts needs sustained levels of funding, not occasional patronage. Lots of people in the industry have been warning of the danger of a super-cluster of creative energy in London, and a desert outside. That's what we've got to strive to overcome.What do I think of 'northern powerhouses'? George Osborne loves baubles and seems quite happy to reach in his pocket when a brilliant idea comes along. But the arts needs sustained levels of funding, not occasional patronage. Lots of people in the industry have been warning of the danger of a super-cluster of creative energy in London, and a desert outside. That's what we've got to strive to overcome.
In the thirteen years Labour was in power the Arts Council budget trebled - in the five years the Tories have been in power it's been cut by a third.In the thirteen years Labour was in power the Arts Council budget trebled - in the five years the Tories have been in power it's been cut by a third.
2.62m people work in the creative industries, that's one in 12 jobs in the UK. It's the only sector that has grown year on year by 4% in the last decade. Creativity is not just an add-on to an economic policy, it has to be the basis of an industrial policy. That means stronger artistic education, sustained tax breaks and/or subsidy, and a fiscal environment in which startup businesses can flourish and grow.2.62m people work in the creative industries, that's one in 12 jobs in the UK. It's the only sector that has grown year on year by 4% in the last decade. Creativity is not just an add-on to an economic policy, it has to be the basis of an industrial policy. That means stronger artistic education, sustained tax breaks and/or subsidy, and a fiscal environment in which startup businesses can flourish and grow.
Updated at 3.00pm GMTUpdated at 3.00pm GMT
1.30pm GMT13:301.30pm GMT13:30
ShinyScalp asks:ShinyScalp asks:
Some years ago (two or three charter renewals, if memory serves), the BBC was forced to sell off its broadcasting infrastructure - the transmitters - under pressure from what was at the time the competition i.e. the other terrestrial broadcasters, most prominently ITV and independent radio.Some years ago (two or three charter renewals, if memory serves), the BBC was forced to sell off its broadcasting infrastructure - the transmitters - under pressure from what was at the time the competition i.e. the other terrestrial broadcasters, most prominently ITV and independent radio.
Since then, of course, the television and radio broadcasting markets have changed beyond recognition, with satellite, cable, and internet (wired and wireless) fulfilling the listening and viewing needs of a great many consumers.Since then, of course, the television and radio broadcasting markets have changed beyond recognition, with satellite, cable, and internet (wired and wireless) fulfilling the listening and viewing needs of a great many consumers.
However, while the BBC has attempted to maintain a presence on all platforms, BSkyB and Virgin Media still tie their customers to their own proprietary hardware. There are large areas of crossover - Virgin Media TV customers can, for a fee, buy Sky’s Sports and Movie channels as bolt-ons to their existing TV package (with the notable exception of Sky Atlantic, which can only be obtained through either a Sky receiving box & satellite dish, or through their online Now TV service). Neither BSkyB nor Virgin make much of their proprietary content available through the Freeview or Freesat platforms.However, while the BBC has attempted to maintain a presence on all platforms, BSkyB and Virgin Media still tie their customers to their own proprietary hardware. There are large areas of crossover - Virgin Media TV customers can, for a fee, buy Sky’s Sports and Movie channels as bolt-ons to their existing TV package (with the notable exception of Sky Atlantic, which can only be obtained through either a Sky receiving box & satellite dish, or through their online Now TV service). Neither BSkyB nor Virgin make much of their proprietary content available through the Freeview or Freesat platforms.
How is this not anti-competitive?How is this not anti-competitive?
Broadcasting always tends towards monopoly for the simple reason that it costs a lot to make a program and show it to one person, but relatively little to show it to another million. That's why you need a mixed economy in broadcasting, properly regulated to ensure that no one player dominates the market. We have a unique ecosystem in the UK. The BBC funded by the licence payer, Sky with twice as much revenue per year as the BBC, the commercial public service broadcasters competing for audiences and quality with the BBC. And Channel 4, in public hands, providing edgy, controversial programming. New technology will provide thousands of new challenges to that ecosystem, but I suspect that in 20 years time it will stand firm. On the whole I prefer open systems rather than proprietary ones, and where bundling or vertical integration act against the interests of the consumers, regulators should be able to act.Broadcasting always tends towards monopoly for the simple reason that it costs a lot to make a program and show it to one person, but relatively little to show it to another million. That's why you need a mixed economy in broadcasting, properly regulated to ensure that no one player dominates the market. We have a unique ecosystem in the UK. The BBC funded by the licence payer, Sky with twice as much revenue per year as the BBC, the commercial public service broadcasters competing for audiences and quality with the BBC. And Channel 4, in public hands, providing edgy, controversial programming. New technology will provide thousands of new challenges to that ecosystem, but I suspect that in 20 years time it will stand firm. On the whole I prefer open systems rather than proprietary ones, and where bundling or vertical integration act against the interests of the consumers, regulators should be able to act.
1.24pm GMT13:241.24pm GMT13:24
ShinyScalp writes:ShinyScalp writes:
Nationwide, a huge amount of Arts funding is not in the control of the DCMS but is instead allocated and directed by local councils, whose funding is being slashed by Eric Pickles’ Department for Communities and Local Government.Nationwide, a huge amount of Arts funding is not in the control of the DCMS but is instead allocated and directed by local councils, whose funding is being slashed by Eric Pickles’ Department for Communities and Local Government.
Statutory requirements on local authorities for, among other things, provision of adult social care mean that their falling block grants and capped council tax are resulting in plummeting funding levels for libraries, arts centres, play areas, sports grounds, and so on.Statutory requirements on local authorities for, among other things, provision of adult social care mean that their falling block grants and capped council tax are resulting in plummeting funding levels for libraries, arts centres, play areas, sports grounds, and so on.
Given that the DCMS and DCLG budgets are separate, but the DCLG-controlled levels of local authority spending are hitting the arts hard at the grassroots level (much harder than the Arts Council is able or willing to ameliorate), what commitment can you give to support local arts and leisure provision?Given that the DCMS and DCLG budgets are separate, but the DCLG-controlled levels of local authority spending are hitting the arts hard at the grassroots level (much harder than the Arts Council is able or willing to ameliorate), what commitment can you give to support local arts and leisure provision?
The biggest danger to arts funding over the next five years will undoubtedly be Tory plans to slash overall expenditure to the levels last seen in the 1930s. Local authorities up and down the land, but especially in deprived metropolitan areas, have seen their budgets cut by tens of millions of pounds. The Arts Council is quite right to want to divert more of its budget outside London and the south east, and to use its funding to lever in additional monies elsewhere around the country. Ed Miliband has said that he wants to bring a cultural policy right to the very heart of his government, which is why he will set up a prime minister's committee on the arts. Its first task will be to look at regional funding of the arts.The biggest danger to arts funding over the next five years will undoubtedly be Tory plans to slash overall expenditure to the levels last seen in the 1930s. Local authorities up and down the land, but especially in deprived metropolitan areas, have seen their budgets cut by tens of millions of pounds. The Arts Council is quite right to want to divert more of its budget outside London and the south east, and to use its funding to lever in additional monies elsewhere around the country. Ed Miliband has said that he wants to bring a cultural policy right to the very heart of his government, which is why he will set up a prime minister's committee on the arts. Its first task will be to look at regional funding of the arts.
Updated at 1.29pm GMTUpdated at 1.29pm GMT
1.18pm GMT13:181.18pm GMT13:18
edlescombe asks:edlescombe asks:
What chance have you got in standing up to vested interests in this country when you were so easily bested by James Blunt. What chance of more opportunities for working class people in the Labour Party?What chance have you got in standing up to vested interests in this country when you were so easily bested by James Blunt. What chance of more opportunities for working class people in the Labour Party?
If I had to sum up what the Labour party is about in this election, it is the fact that we have to take the whole country with us. It's not good enough for a few people at the top to prosper, or for one part of the country to do well. We have to spread economic, social, cultural opportunity to all. I have no beef with James Blunt personally, I'm even the owner of one of his albums. But not everyone got the same chance as him in life. You're absolutely right that these issues don't just apply to the arts, they also apply to parliament where you need a real range of people, if the country is to be properly represented. I like to think that although I'm a white public schoolboy, I offer some elements of diversity in other ways.If I had to sum up what the Labour party is about in this election, it is the fact that we have to take the whole country with us. It's not good enough for a few people at the top to prosper, or for one part of the country to do well. We have to spread economic, social, cultural opportunity to all. I have no beef with James Blunt personally, I'm even the owner of one of his albums. But not everyone got the same chance as him in life. You're absolutely right that these issues don't just apply to the arts, they also apply to parliament where you need a real range of people, if the country is to be properly represented. I like to think that although I'm a white public schoolboy, I offer some elements of diversity in other ways.
In the arts, that means you've got to start with a universal entitlement to every child to a good artistic education. We've got to end the business of only getting a leg up because your parents know somebody in the business, or because you can afford to work for free for six months, and we've got to encourage real paid apprenticeships across the creative industries. Exactly the same applies to parliament, where every second intern seems to be somebody's relative or friend, and we are in danger of becoming a self-perpetuating isolated clique. One thing we have to do in politics is prevent the rush to an arms race in spending. In the States that means only rich people dare stand for election. There's a danger of that happening here, which is why I'm proud of the trade union link, not embarrassed by it.In the arts, that means you've got to start with a universal entitlement to every child to a good artistic education. We've got to end the business of only getting a leg up because your parents know somebody in the business, or because you can afford to work for free for six months, and we've got to encourage real paid apprenticeships across the creative industries. Exactly the same applies to parliament, where every second intern seems to be somebody's relative or friend, and we are in danger of becoming a self-perpetuating isolated clique. One thing we have to do in politics is prevent the rush to an arms race in spending. In the States that means only rich people dare stand for election. There's a danger of that happening here, which is why I'm proud of the trade union link, not embarrassed by it.
One thing we're going to do is introduce a compulsory jobs guarantee for anyone under 25 out of work for six months - they'll get a six month job on the minimum wage. It's been very successful in Wales, and I hope that hundreds of arts organisations will take it up across the whole of the UK.One thing we're going to do is introduce a compulsory jobs guarantee for anyone under 25 out of work for six months - they'll get a six month job on the minimum wage. It's been very successful in Wales, and I hope that hundreds of arts organisations will take it up across the whole of the UK.
1.14pm GMT13:141.14pm GMT13:14
hariwulafr asks:hariwulafr asks:
Have you upgraded your pants to a more stylish undergarment befitting of your current stature?Have you upgraded your pants to a more stylish undergarment befitting of your current stature?
Stop flirting!Stop flirting!
1.13pm GMT13:131.13pm GMT13:13
Bluedylan asks:Bluedylan asks:
Could you and your colleagues please form any coalition that keeps the Tories and/or UKIP away from Government, and not take the same arrogant attitude that was taken into potential coalition discussions after the last election, which has resulted in this awful, deeply sinister Condem coalition, and in my opinion has directly and indirectly cost many people their lives?Could you and your colleagues please form any coalition that keeps the Tories and/or UKIP away from Government, and not take the same arrogant attitude that was taken into potential coalition discussions after the last election, which has resulted in this awful, deeply sinister Condem coalition, and in my opinion has directly and indirectly cost many people their lives?
I'm still fighting the Tories! And Ukip, and the Lib Dems, and the SNP, and Plaid Cymru, and the Greens, because I want a majority Labour government. In the end it's for the voters to shuffle the pack and deal the cards.I'm still fighting the Tories! And Ukip, and the Lib Dems, and the SNP, and Plaid Cymru, and the Greens, because I want a majority Labour government. In the end it's for the voters to shuffle the pack and deal the cards.
1.12pm GMT13:121.12pm GMT13:12
'Putin is a dangerous kleptomaniac who needs to be confronted, not appeased''Putin is a dangerous kleptomaniac who needs to be confronted, not appeased'
queequeg7 asks:queequeg7 asks:
You’re one of the few Labour members of the Henry Jackson Society - an extreme rightwing pressure group packed to the rafters with Tea Party crazies, NeoCons, Republicans and Conservatives. Can you explain why?You’re one of the few Labour members of the Henry Jackson Society - an extreme rightwing pressure group packed to the rafters with Tea Party crazies, NeoCons, Republicans and Conservatives. Can you explain why?
I've co-operated with the Henry Jackson Society on the sole issue of Russia, because I believe Putin is a dangerous kleptomaniac who needs to be confronted, not appeased.I've co-operated with the Henry Jackson Society on the sole issue of Russia, because I believe Putin is a dangerous kleptomaniac who needs to be confronted, not appeased.
Updated at 3.00pm GMTUpdated at 3.00pm GMT
1.11pm GMT13:111.11pm GMT13:11
'The Eurovision Song Contest is a force for good in the world. Personally I quite like Electro Velvet's number''The Eurovision Song Contest is a force for good in the world. Personally I quite like Electro Velvet's number'
trimphone asks:trimphone asks:
If Australia can join the Eurovision Song Contest then who should be next and what can be done to stop the political voting?If Australia can join the Eurovision Song Contest then who should be next and what can be done to stop the political voting?
I think the Eurovision Song Contest is a force for good in the world, and personally I quite like Electro Velvet's number. I realise this is very, very controversial.I think the Eurovision Song Contest is a force for good in the world, and personally I quite like Electro Velvet's number. I realise this is very, very controversial.
I've been to the Eurovision Song Contest three times, my favourite moment was when Sir Christopher Bland, chairman of the BBC mixed up Rosemary Scanlon, also known as Dana, with Dana International. Second favourite moment was when the British compere was talking to the chairwoman of the Dutch jury who wished the competitors well because she had represented the Netherlands. The compere said "that must have been a very long time ago" - and Europe gasped.I've been to the Eurovision Song Contest three times, my favourite moment was when Sir Christopher Bland, chairman of the BBC mixed up Rosemary Scanlon, also known as Dana, with Dana International. Second favourite moment was when the British compere was talking to the chairwoman of the Dutch jury who wished the competitors well because she had represented the Netherlands. The compere said "that must have been a very long time ago" - and Europe gasped.
I'm very happy about Australia being in it, but I hope they realise Abba are no longer performing!I'm very happy about Australia being in it, but I hope they realise Abba are no longer performing!
Updated at 3.00pm GMTUpdated at 3.00pm GMT
1.09pm GMT13:091.09pm GMT13:09
jenny_stevens asks:jenny_stevens asks:
What was the last album you bought?What was the last album you bought?
Ian Bostridge, his Winterreise. Last concert: Erasure.Ian Bostridge, his Winterreise. Last concert: Erasure.
1.07pm GMT13:071.07pm GMT13:07
philblyghton asks:philblyghton asks:
Can you comment on the prospects of a Grand Coalition between Labour and the Tories after the election? There do not appear to be completely unreconcilable differences between the parties on the measures and timeframe required to close the deficit (particularly after Labour’s recent commitment to match £30bn of tax increases/spending cuts proposed by George Osborne); both parties have identified house building as a key priority; both parties support the Union; both parties support an EU referendum (albeit under different circumstances); both parties broadly support tax avoidance reform; both parties are in the same ballpark on controlled immigration. There are clear differences on public sector spending and tax cuts vs living wage as a means of ameliorating cost of living issues, but are these totally incompatible?Can you comment on the prospects of a Grand Coalition between Labour and the Tories after the election? There do not appear to be completely unreconcilable differences between the parties on the measures and timeframe required to close the deficit (particularly after Labour’s recent commitment to match £30bn of tax increases/spending cuts proposed by George Osborne); both parties have identified house building as a key priority; both parties support the Union; both parties support an EU referendum (albeit under different circumstances); both parties broadly support tax avoidance reform; both parties are in the same ballpark on controlled immigration. There are clear differences on public sector spending and tax cuts vs living wage as a means of ameliorating cost of living issues, but are these totally incompatible?
I'm fighting to beat the Tories, not join them. Feel free to join me.I'm fighting to beat the Tories, not join them. Feel free to join me.
1.02pm GMT13:021.02pm GMT13:02
clareyesno asks:clareyesno asks:
What art/music/film/tv etc has ever moved you to tears?What art/music/film/tv etc has ever moved you to tears?
Also, the Tory approach to the film industry was to very vocally champion blockbuster hits – what do you think is the best approach to creating a varied film culture in the UK, where we have great blockbusters as well as powerful ‘arthouse’ type work? How can less obviously mainstream films be best funded? And what do you see as a real artistic triumph in recent British film-making? Thanks for taking on all of these!Also, the Tory approach to the film industry was to very vocally champion blockbuster hits – what do you think is the best approach to creating a varied film culture in the UK, where we have great blockbusters as well as powerful ‘arthouse’ type work? How can less obviously mainstream films be best funded? And what do you see as a real artistic triumph in recent British film-making? Thanks for taking on all of these!
I cry at nearly everything, including Yellow Pages adverts. As I'm Welsh. Last night I watched Still Alice with a magnificent performance from Julianne Moore, written and produced by my friends Richard Glatzer and Wash Westmoreland. They made Echo Park, and we stayed with them in Echo Park as part of my honeymoon. And in fact the saddest film ever for me would be Captains Courageous, or A Matter of Life and Death. Hours of weeping to be done.I cry at nearly everything, including Yellow Pages adverts. As I'm Welsh. Last night I watched Still Alice with a magnificent performance from Julianne Moore, written and produced by my friends Richard Glatzer and Wash Westmoreland. They made Echo Park, and we stayed with them in Echo Park as part of my honeymoon. And in fact the saddest film ever for me would be Captains Courageous, or A Matter of Life and Death. Hours of weeping to be done.
There are three parts of support. A strong BBC, a Channel 4 kept in public hands with the remit to make challenging TV and film, and a strong BFI able to make courageous decisions with lottery funding. In the end though, you need brilliant people coming out of school, with that energy for making films and some of the nous about how to make it happen. That's why I think we need to start with a universal entitlement to a strong artistic and cultural education in every school. One of the things we're going to do is say that Ofsted will only be able to give a school a good or outstanding rating if it's good or outstanding at arts eduction. You're also got to stop the constant dissing of cultural education from government ministers, that we've seen under Gove and Morgan.There are three parts of support. A strong BBC, a Channel 4 kept in public hands with the remit to make challenging TV and film, and a strong BFI able to make courageous decisions with lottery funding. In the end though, you need brilliant people coming out of school, with that energy for making films and some of the nous about how to make it happen. That's why I think we need to start with a universal entitlement to a strong artistic and cultural education in every school. One of the things we're going to do is say that Ofsted will only be able to give a school a good or outstanding rating if it's good or outstanding at arts eduction. You're also got to stop the constant dissing of cultural education from government ministers, that we've seen under Gove and Morgan.
There's another issue which is funding. I have friends in the business, and this is a nightmare. Projects can take a decade or more, that's why I support the film tax credit system which has meant dozens or more films are being made in this country. Incidentally I like a blockbuster or two as well. I even enjoyed Captain America, though I preferred Guardians of the Galaxy.There's another issue which is funding. I have friends in the business, and this is a nightmare. Projects can take a decade or more, that's why I support the film tax credit system which has meant dozens or more films are being made in this country. Incidentally I like a blockbuster or two as well. I even enjoyed Captain America, though I preferred Guardians of the Galaxy.
I don't want some know-it-all in Whitehall telling people what film to make or show or watch. That's why you need a mix of funding through the licence fee, through commercial revenues, through the lottery. There was a very courageous film made once called Solomon and Gaynor. It's in Yiddish, Welsh and English - really mass market, that! It got an Oscar, and the idea from that I was told the other day came in the back of a taxi. But the funding was a complex mix of public and private.I don't want some know-it-all in Whitehall telling people what film to make or show or watch. That's why you need a mix of funding through the licence fee, through commercial revenues, through the lottery. There was a very courageous film made once called Solomon and Gaynor. It's in Yiddish, Welsh and English - really mass market, that! It got an Oscar, and the idea from that I was told the other day came in the back of a taxi. But the funding was a complex mix of public and private.
As for a recent artistic British film... it's always a question of what is British. Is Still Alice a British film? But undoubtedly superb performances by Eddie Redmayne and Benedict Cumberbatch that have won success across the globe are part of that mix.As for a recent artistic British film... it's always a question of what is British. Is Still Alice a British film? But undoubtedly superb performances by Eddie Redmayne and Benedict Cumberbatch that have won success across the globe are part of that mix.
Updated at 1.05pm GMTUpdated at 1.05pm GMT
12.59pm GMT12:5912.59pm GMT12:59
Chris Bryant is in the buildingChris Bryant is in the building
Here’s the shadow culture minister in the Guardian offices ready to answer your questionsHere’s the shadow culture minister in the Guardian offices ready to answer your questions
10.20am GMT10:2010.20am GMT10:20
Post your questions for Chris BryantPost your questions for Chris Bryant
Ahead of the 2015 general election, the Guardian will be running live webchats with each of the main parties’ culture ministers to gauge their stance on the arts. From how they plan to allot funding, to how to tackle the knotty problem of south-east dominance, readers can quiz them on the most pressing issues facing audiences and professionals alike – and perhaps get an insight into their personal tastes.Ahead of the 2015 general election, the Guardian will be running live webchats with each of the main parties’ culture ministers to gauge their stance on the arts. From how they plan to allot funding, to how to tackle the knotty problem of south-east dominance, readers can quiz them on the most pressing issues facing audiences and professionals alike – and perhaps get an insight into their personal tastes.
First up is Chris Bryant, Labour MP for Rhondda and shadow minister for the arts. He originally trained to be a priest before changing tack for politics in 1991, claiming his homosexuality would have been frowned on by the church at the time. After working with charities, serving on Hackney council, and writing biographies of Labour greats Stafford Cripps and Glenda Jackson, Bryant won the Rhondda seat in 2000. During Gordon Brown’s ministership he ascended to roles as parliamentary secretary and minister for Europe, before eventually taking his current role as of December last year.First up is Chris Bryant, Labour MP for Rhondda and shadow minister for the arts. He originally trained to be a priest before changing tack for politics in 1991, claiming his homosexuality would have been frowned on by the church at the time. After working with charities, serving on Hackney council, and writing biographies of Labour greats Stafford Cripps and Glenda Jackson, Bryant won the Rhondda seat in 2000. During Gordon Brown’s ministership he ascended to roles as parliamentary secretary and minister for Europe, before eventually taking his current role as of December last year.
He was quick to make a splash, wading into the debate over privilege in the arts. “We can’t just have a culture dominated by Eddie Redmayne and James Blunt and their ilk,” he said. “We can’t just have Downton programming ad infinitum and think that just because we’ve got some people in the servants’ hall, somehow or other we’ve done our duty by gritty drama.” He enraged Blunt, who dubbed him a “classist gimp”, but Bryant rallied with a heartfelt letter in reply.He was quick to make a splash, wading into the debate over privilege in the arts. “We can’t just have a culture dominated by Eddie Redmayne and James Blunt and their ilk,” he said. “We can’t just have Downton programming ad infinitum and think that just because we’ve got some people in the servants’ hall, somehow or other we’ve done our duty by gritty drama.” He enraged Blunt, who dubbed him a “classist gimp”, but Bryant rallied with a heartfelt letter in reply.
He is joining us to answer your questions from 1pm GMT on Monday 9 March – post them in the comments below, and he’ll answer as many as time allows.He is joining us to answer your questions from 1pm GMT on Monday 9 March – post them in the comments below, and he’ll answer as many as time allows.