On April 16th we published a blog post informing of Ed Vaizey’s lack of response to playwright Fin Kennedy’s In Battalions report. Perhaps Ed himself is a PP blog reader, because on the same day he issued a response to Fin giving his thoughts on the matter.
Whilst he appreciates Fin’s efforts in compiling such a thorough report on the critical situation new writing culture finds itself in, he takes a different view. He begins by highlighting the current economic climate,
“…we need to reduce the deficit, and DCMS sectors need to play their part in that. In the longer term our sectors, which rely on a mixed funding model, will benefit hugely from a strong economy and stable public finances”.
He very correctly goes on to highlight organisations with a strong new writing track record that have recently received increased funding during the last allocation. He then mentions the Arts Council Grants for the Arts scheme, which awards smaller amounts on occasions rather than regular funding, the chief concern of In Battalions.
Perhaps unfortunately, one page and a half letter is dedicated to highlighting how most of those who had contributed to the report had been rewarded in recent funding,
“Of the eighteen organisations that responded by name in your survey I noticed that eight have actually received significant increases in funding for this year set against 2011/2012 and one organisation shows no change in their funding. Furthermore of all theatre organisations which are funded, 24 received increases in funding set against 23 which show reductions whilst 11 showed no change”.
His final comment is to then speak of his own personal optimism with regards new writing and the future ecology,
“Whilst I in no way deny the overriding concern being felt in the sector at this difficult time, I was also interested and heartened to read some of the comments in the report that speak of optimism, resilience, innovation, and making the most of the way the Government is continuing to support the sector”.
There is no doubt that the discussion does not end here. Paines Plough is in direct contact with Fin and will inform you as and when any further action is taken. We would love to hear your thoughts on the above letter, as well as what you think should be done next. Whilst a direct dialogue with Vaizey is appreciated, it is obvious that some of the major findings are yet to be addressed.
Please let us know your thoughts, and we’ll inform you when we receive any more news.